Let those who ride
 DECIDE!

 

2006 Candidate Survey Responses

Click HERE for an easy to navigate, sort, filter and download MS Excel Spreadsheet version

 

Legislative District Candidate Name ABATE District         Postal/Mailing Address, Phone Number, Web Address, Email Address 1. Do you favor or oppose efforts in Nebraska to mandate helmet usage by motorcyclists?                                                                                                                                     2. In the past, state legislation has been influenced by federal mandates that include incentives and/or penalties that force the states to “tow the line”. Do you feel this practice is acceptable?  3. Motorcycle rider education providers in Nebraska are facing increased demands and costs. It is currently funded by $1 per year surcharge on the motorcycle endorsement of the motorcycle operator’s driver’s license.  Would you favor or oppose an effort to find an acceptable way to raise monies for this fund to support motorcycle safety and awareness in Nebraska  ? 4. Would you favor or oppose legislation which would include motorcyclist in those interests which can not be discriminated against by federal, state, business or private entities (including insurance companies), if motorcyclists activities are lawful? 5. Would you favor or oppose legislation giving motorcycle riders car-pooling credits or benefits? 6. Would you favor or oppose directing the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles to emphasize motorcycle awareness training information in their motor vehicle operator’s handbook and testing material? 7. Would you favor or oppose a resolution urging local authorities to set aside dedicated motorcycle parking in downtown and shopping areas? 8. Would you favor or oppose permanently designating the month of May as “Motorcycle Awareness Month in Nebraska” and support programs to encourage motor vehicle operators to be more aware of motorcycle riders? 9. Would you favor or oppose tougher penalties when traffic offenses or criminal actions by irresponsible motorists result in a death or serious injury to motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians?  
                           
2 Dave Pankonin  6, 11 721 Main Street, Louisville, NE 68037  I think the compromise that State Sen Adrian Smith proposed in 2005 was reasonable to study the state’s cost of treating uninsured riders. I would be open to future discussion of this issue and take into consideration your organization’s viewpoint.
 In some circumstances—I do not like many federal mandates but with serious consequences, you better be careful.
 Favor Favor Please explain how you carpool with motorcycles? Need to know more.
 Favor Favor Favor Favor  
2 Jerry O. Bond  6, 11 12181 A St. PO Box 707, Avoca , NE 68307, 402-275-3393 or 402-540-0774, JerryBond4legislature@yahoo.com  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate)          I believe people should have the freedom to choose to wear a helmet. Nebraska looses million's of tourism dollars each year by motorcyclists by-passing Nebraska to go to South Dakota. Never Favor - Yes, looking at new ways to make things safer by education at the same time making sure they have the funds to do this will save tax payers money and lives in the long run. Favor Favor Favor This would be very helpful and needed Favor Favor Favor  
                           
4 Pete Pirsch  6 2315 Nelsons Creek Dr., Omaha, NE 68116  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
4 Tony Sorrentino  6 13295 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68154  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
6 Lynne Anderson  6 6626 Cuming St., Omaha, NE 68132  Favor (For helmet mandate) In some circumstances Favor I do not understand this question. Favor Favor Oppose - If parking space is limited, it is not wise to limit space for motorcycles and then have that space not used. Favor Oppose - It is important to protect all citizens. Irresponsible motorists should be penalizes no matter who they injure.  
6 John E. Nelson  6 6269 Glenwood Road, Omaha, NE 68132  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
8 Tom White  6 2517 N 55th Street, Omaha, NE 68104  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate)                  
8 Marc Kraft  6 601 N. 51 St., Omaha, NE 68132  Favor (For helmet mandate)                  
                           
10 Mike Friend  6 4722 N 81 St., Omaha, NE 68134  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
10 Rob Wimberley  6 3615 N.113th Court, #5, Omaha, NE 68164  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
12 Jean Stothert  6 5909 S 118 Plz, Omaha, NE 68137  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
12 Steve Lathrop  6 11818 Oakair Plaza, Omaha, NE 68151  Favor (For helmet mandate), I have seen the mandatory helmet law save riders from brain injuries. Under a few circumstances Favor, As a trial attorney, I've had an opportunity to represent many motorcyclists that have been injured in motorcycle-auto accidents. I've also observed that most of these collisions are the fault of the automobile operator and not the cyclist. I would support increased funding for motorcycle safety that educates not only the motorcyclist but raises awareness of the motoring public.  Oppose - the classification of groups for protection under this country's civil rights laws were not intended to protect "interest groups". No response - I'm unsure of what is meant by "car-pooling credits or benefits". Perhaps this is a question that has more relevance in communities that provide special treatment for those who carpool. Favor, I believe it is critical that the motoring public be made more aware of the motorcyclists. Using the operator's handbook and testing materials to increase awareness is a legitimate approach to this objective. No response - I have no reason to oppose a resolution urging local communities to ser aside dedicated motorcycle parking. Frankly, I've not seen  problem with this in Omaha. I would be open to discussion whether this is a problem and if so, a reasonable solution. Favor, I would definitely favor May as "Motorcycle Awareness Month". I think that is the perfect time of your to wage a campaign of motorcycle awareness No response - I've represented a good number of people killed in motorcycle accidents and auto accidents. I believe the penalty for a misdemeanor motor vehicle homicide could easily be increased to make this offense more serious. On the other hand, I would not favor creating a separate classification of persons killed by automobiles for more harsh punishment.  
                           
14 Tim Gay  6 1001 Hogan Drive, Papillion, NE 68046  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
14 Ian M. Hartfield  6 8208 Elm Dr #5, La Vista, NE 68128  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
16 Kent Rogert  5 1026 CR47, POBox114, Tekamah, NE 68061, 402-250-6869, krogert1@cox.net, www.rogert.net  Oppose (Against helmet mandate) In Some Circumstances Favor No Response Not sure...what credits do we have now for car-pooling? Favor Favor Favor Not sure, need more information  
16 Jeff Bush  5 604 East 3rd Street, Oakland, NE 68045, 402-685-5151, GalfridusBosk@yahoo.com  Oppose (Against helmet mandate) - people should have the right to choose whether they wear helmets. It is a good idea for children to have some extra protection, however. I think children should be required to wear helmets if they are on motorcycles. Never Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor  
                           
18 Mick Mines  5, 6 636 Hillcrest Drive, Blair, NE 68008  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate)                  
18 Scott Yahnke  5, 6 4414 N156 Avenue Cir., Omaha, NE 68116  Favor (For helmet mandate) Sorry, I know ABATE is opposed to this. I personally have had accidents on both a motorcycle and a bicycle where a helmet has made it possible for me to be sitting here responding to your questionnaire. So many people, especially the young ones, would not want to wear a helmet unless it was required by law. It would be too late for them to one on after they had an accident where they used their head in direct contact with the ground, etc... In some circumstances Favor I've taken the RSC and it is one of the best programs out there. In fact, it actually saved my life a few times, I feel. Favor??? The only problems here are (1) the helmet issue, because it is no uniform nationally and (2) the insurance actuaries, who use statistics to set rates, etc… This is a sticky issue because some bikes aren't really that fuel efficient "per capita". This is going to make a blanket "credit/benefit" standard hard to apply. Favor See #3 comment - the more this is promoted, the fewer people out there that will die or get seriously injured. Favor It's a legitimate form of transportation so provide for it! Favor May is a great time of year for this in Nebraska - maybe even April…either would be fine. This is a good idea. Favor Actually I'd just like to see the CURRENT laws enforced/applied FIRST. I have been in numerous situations, mostly on my road-racing bicycle, where motorists just act like "you don't count" because you're not operating a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, even if you're going 40 mph! No one (in significant numbers) will be more watchful/respectful of human life on two wheels unless laws mandate it, AND penalties are in place.  
                           
20 Carol Casey  6 2506 S 105 Ave, Omaha, NE, 68124, 402-397-9279, ccasey@cox.net  Favor (For helmet mandate) - As a member of the Board if Directors of the National Safety County, Greater Omaha Chapter, safe practices such as wearing a protective helmet, are primary for all motorcycle operators The question is not clear - is it in reference to a particular federal mandate? Sorry, but just no sure about this question. Favor - I believe rider education is extremely important and must be the first and required step in becoming licensed. Are there situation existing where motorcyclists feel discriminated against? I am not sure how to discuss this question. Again, not clear as to what you're looking for here - you would like to see a credit or benefit applied to what? Licensing and registration. Favor Favor Favor Oppose but with comment - I don't feel there needs to be specific penalties aimed at drivers' offenses resulting in harm to motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians. ANY traffic or criminal actions by irresponsible motorists resulting in the death or serious injury TO ANYONE must carry tougher penalties to truly be a deterrent to future offenses. There also needs to be a standardization of these penalties.  
20 Brad Ashford  6 7926 Shirley, Omaha, NE 68124  Favor (For helmet mandate)                  
                           
22 Arnie Stuthman  4 24160 310 St, Platte Center, NE 68653  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate)                  
                           
24 Greg L. Adams  4, 7 24 Eastridge Drive N., York, NE 68467, 9990150@alltel.net  Favor (For helmet mandate) Presently, I stand in favor of helmet usage in Nebraska. As I have indicated to local riders that I have spoken with, I am open to reading the research and other information they can make available to me. In some circumstances Favor Favor I'm not sure  Favor I would consider it if it is applicable to Nebraska Favor Oppose Favor Favor If there is negligence on the part of the motorist and if Nebraska's law are not accurate enough or if "mandatory" sentences need to be part of the mix, then I would favor review and possible changes  
24 Curt Friesen  4, 7 1000 17th, Henderson, NE 68371  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate) Under a few circumstances Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor Any death that results from reckless driving should come w/severe penalties. It would depend on the specific legislations wording, I would favor or oppose. I am not up-to-date on the current penalties for these offenses  
                           
26 Steve Guittar  2 2330 Nancy Drive, Lincoln, NE 68507  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
26 Amanda McGill  2 5045 Vine St. #520, Lincoln, NE 68504  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
28 Bill Avery  2 1925 E Street, Lincoln, NE 68510  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
28 Bob Swanson  2 3553 Woods Ave., Lincoln, NE 68510, 613-1457, swansonfor28@yahoo.com  Undecided - I favor personal freedoms over government regulations. I am willing to listen to arguments concerning repealing the current helmet law in Nebraska. I am not certain if I favor or oppose repealing the current law at this time.                                                     (Continued in column "N") Under a few circumstances (I believe in State Rights as defined in the U.S. Constitution.) Favor Favor Favor - Rider consume much less fuel so it makes sense to me Favor Favor Favor Oppose - Penalties should be based upon the actions of the accused, not just the severity of the consequences Continued from column "E": My primary hesitation in supporting a repeal of the law is because of the following scenario: If I make a serious driving error and turn into an oncoming vehicle the consequences has less to do with my error as with the type of vehicle into which I turned. If I turn into a large truck, the most serious consequence may be to my health and property. However, If I turn into a motorcycle, the rider will face the most serious consequences, perhaps death. The penalty in each case will be significantly different even though my action would be the same. If the rider was better protected, it could lessen his or her injuries, and they reduce my legal consequences. I respect and adult's ability to decide whether or not to wear a helmet, but it does not just affect them. If we can craft legislation that reduces the criminal and or civil liabilities for a motorist that injures or kills a rider without a helmet, I would then be more apt to support a repeal of Nebraska's current law. 
                           
30 Tony Ojeda  2 14440 SW 15th Circle, Roca, NE 68430  Favor (For helmet mandate) I am supportive of mandates for both helmets & seatbelts due to safety reasons. Under few circumstances Favor I would not be in favor of funding from the State's General Fund. Favor I am uncertain on this legislation & would be more than happy to discuss it further. Favor Oppose - This is a local issue & should not be brought up in the State Legislature. Favor Favor  
30 Norm Wallman  2 5696 SW 2nd Rd, Cortland, NE 68331  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
32 Jeanne Combs  7, 8 703 5th St., Milligan, NE 68406  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
32 Russ Karpisek  7, 8 315 N. Shimerda, Wilber, NE 68465  FAVOR - This is a tough question for me. My heart says to let them ride w/o helmets, but my head says, they should wear them. Right now I would have to be in favor helmets under few circumstances FAVOR - Education is very important and needs to have money to operate FAVOR OPPOSE - How would you know how many miles are driven, and if they were for work or pleasure FAVOR OPPOSE - Parking is at a premium, what would this spaced be used for in the winter FAVOR FAVOR  
                           
34 Annette  Dubas  8 RR1 Box 42, Fullerton, NE 68638  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
34 Greg Senkbile  8 1425 M Road, Central City, NE 68826  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate) - I do not like the word mandate at all. I believe that wearing a helmet makes sense. I also believe that it should be law to the age of 21 and that all motorcyclists should take a safety course. After the age of 21 it should be your choice. Never Favor - It is always better to encourage this type of program through some type of self support system - rallies, manufacturer donations, etc. Favor Favor Favor- I think making the other guy (automobiles drivers) more aware of motorcycles and how they operate would go a long way in motorcycle safety Favor Favor - May would be an appropriate month to do such a thing Favor -I think that the penalties are probably severe enough, they just need to be enforced. Especially alcohol related violations.  
                           
36 Dick Pierce  3 33560 Hwy 183, Miller, NE 68858  Does helmet usage save lives? Is the State Loosing revenue by cyclists going around our State? Advantages & disadvantages to both. I don’t like mandates. I can also see both side of this. A motorcyclist should be able to make his/her own choice, but are insurance costs affected by non use of helmets? Maybe and incentive to wear helmets would be better than a penalty to not wear.
 In some circumstances Favor Favor Favor They are traveling more economically than one in a 4 wheeled vehicle. Favor We see motorcycles all the time. Motorists need to be aware.
 Oppose - Why should cyclists get special privileges? Favor The extra exposure would be beneficial. This looks like special treatment. Is that necessary? I would like more info.
  
36 John Wightman         3 501 Fillmore St., Lexington, NE 68850  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
38 Tom Carlson  7, 8, 3 1112 Brown St., Holdrege, NE 68949  Favor (For helmet mandate)                  
38 Wayne Garrison  7, 8. 3 288 W 4th, Nelson, NE 68961,             402-225-5031,                 garrisonforlegislture@alltel.net  Not sure In some circumstances Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor Favor Oppose  
                           
40 Cap Dierks  4, 5 RR1 Box 131, Ewing, NE 68735  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
40 Tom Noecker  4, 5 304 S. Madison, Hartington, NE 68239  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
42 Thomas Hansen  9 3782 W Foothill Rd., North Platte, NE 69101  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
42 Marc Kaschke  9 414 N Allen Ave., North Platte, NE 69101  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
                           
44 Mark Christensen  12 138 Yucca Drive, Imperial, NE 69033  I believe in freedom of choice and I believe in personal & medical responsibility. No helmet equals more tourism revenue for NE. No helmet also equals more state expense being incurred because of more serious accidents. NE citizens shouldn't bare the burden of uninsured motorcyclists. Under few circumstances Favor Favor Favor Favor Oppose - Depends on the size of the city, but I am really against forming a special group. Sign development & enforcement costs would be high. It would open the door to others wanting dedicated parking for their vehicle type. Favor Oppose - I believe people are equal. Motorists of every type should be aware of the risks that exist when driving on public highways in or on their chosen vehicle. I have spoken to many motorcyclists that agree.  
44 Frank Shoemaker  12 210 Norris Avenue, McCook, NE 69001  I will listen to your suggestions. The Michigan proposal is interesting. My focus is on small scooter less that 85 cc's…licensing, no helmets, no motorcycle license. I appreciate the demographics have changed for bike riders No response No response No response - Don't know Favor Favor Favor No Response No response  
                           
46 Carol J. Brown  2 2201 Elba Circle, Lincoln, NE 68521  No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response No Response  
46 Danielle Nantkes  2 3179 R St. #1, Lincoln, NE 68503, 402-432-3394, www.daniellnantkes.com  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate) Under a few circumstances Favor Increasing the level of education and awareness on these issues is a positive activity. I would need more specifics before taking a stance on this issue. Favor I would favor legislation that creates a level playing field for motor vehicles and motorcycles. Favor Favor Favor I would need more specifics before taking a stance on this issue. I do believe that with increased awareness and education we can work to prevent accidents before they happen.  
                           
48 George Schlothauer  10 2320 17th Street, Gering, NE 69341  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate) I don't like mandates of any kind. I would hope that bikers would wear helmets because the realize they seriousness of possible accidents. I would also want them to have necessary medical insurance if they are injured In  some circumstances From your explanation it sounds like this is already being funded & motorcycle rider education is taking place. I would have to know how much the program is underfunded before I could offer an opinion. Favor Oppose Favor Favor As long as it is "urged" and not required by law. Favor I don't know what the penalties are now so I don't know if they need to the tougher.  
48 John N. Harms  10 1918 E. 28th Street, Scottsbluff, NE 69361, 308-635-1428, www.JohnNHarms.com, john@johnnharms.com  Oppose (Against Helmet Mandate) I disapprove of people riding motorcycles without a helmet, but I will defend their right to do it. Children are a different matter. Parents and society have a responsibility to protect children from undue harm. Mandated car sears and helmets for children in certain activities are reasonable restrictions.    (Continued in column "N") In some circumstances Favor Favor Oppose Favor Oppose No Response No Response (Continued from column "E")       The argument that helmetless motorcycle riders become a public burden when they sustain serious had injuries that require expensive medical treatment can be overcome by requiring proof of insurance for medical care for licensed motorcycle riders. Some states no have such a requirement.