Mr. Stein and committee members,

On behalf of the AMA District 17 Club Council, our associated clubs and members, I am again contacting you in hopes that you will include us and the thousands of motorcycle riders we represent within any forthcoming changes to the governor’s shelter in place proclamation.

It has come to our attention that the governor has decided to allow golfing for IL residents- we feel that we offer an equal form of recreation that presents fewer social distancing concerns.  In the absence of consideration, we believe this to be discriminatory and believe advocates of many other outdoor recreational activities would feel the same.

Medical research has already proven that sunlight and heat are slowing the effects of this virus- just yesterday, President Trump and Vice President Pence included this within their daily press conferences.  As a result, we feel that our clubs and open riding areas provide the perfect environments to limit contact.

By nature our sport is already contactless and requires goggles for the eyes and helmets to protect the head.  As mentioned in previous letters, we ride in large, open areas- in most cases, 20 acres or more.

Opening these clubs and riding parks as soon as possible is paramount to their survival.  Many have sought to obtain federal aid, but those funds have already been exhausted.  Most of these organizations are family-owned and operated or run by volunteers, some for as many as 70 years.  These are your constituents- they need your help!

In preparation for re-opening, steps have already been taken for establishing appointments to ride and limit numbers.  If our clubs and tracks are allowed to open, we have a chance to survive.  After May 1st, EVERY state surrounding IL has already given permission for their tracks and riding areas to re-open- all except Illinois.  If necessary, we can submit a formal plan however we believe the guidelines applied for golf would work for us as well.

We feel that we shouldn't be ignored, and we feel that the city of Chicago shouldn't determine the rest of the state’s ability to survive.  We pray that this request is considered before more drastic measures are required.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
AMA District 17 Club Council Inc.