Good morning Senator,My name is Justin Turcotte and I am a citizen of Bangor and am also an enlisted member of the 101st ARW here in Bangor.
I have recently heard news of this new bill which will be taking effect in a little less than a week, and I am a bit worried for myself, and other vehicle enthusiasts.
First off, I would like to mention that not only are motorcycles affected, but also the many trucks, and cars that have put performance exhausts on their vehicles. Many of whom no longer have their stock exhaust.
I, myself, have put a performance exhaust on my vehicle, a 2009 Subaru WRX. I say performance because it has increased my fuel mileage from 24 highway to 28 and in town 19 to 22. It is louder than the stock system, but that is because it is much less restrictive and freer flowing.
I feel that if people are respectful and do not drive or operate their vehicle with the intent to create a loud, obnoxious noise, but to increase performance and fuel mileage, that they should be exempt from this new law.
This is going to hurt a lot of people financially that do not have their original exhaust system. Most OEM systems are 2-3 times more expensive than the aftermarket systems. If I had not kept mine, I would have to pay Subaru $2500 for an OEM exhaust system! How does the State expect its citizens to pay for a system out of pocket within 8 days of the new law change, especially in a economic time like this?
I feel that many will be repeat offenders before they can even afford an OEM system and may never afford it because of the fines imposed.
I understand that the State may be hurting for funding, but I believe that there could be an alternate way to do this.
I do not see why the old law was not working sufficiently. If the vehicle seemed loud, that should be sufficient to pull someone over, and then test the vehicle right there.
I do not see a problem with the original law, but more so a problem with enforcing it. If citizens are upset because irresponsible drivers are creating loud exhaust noise, then law enforcement needs to crack down, not impose a new law, hurting the responsible drivers with aftermarket exhausts as well.
I am not trying to be long winded, but merely show you my perspective, and how this will affect the State of Maine negatively, more than positively.
I thank you for your time, in reading my message, and I hope to hear a well constructed response to my thoughts on this new law change.
Sincerely,
Justin
A1C Justin M. Turcotte
101 ARW, 101CES
Generator Maintainer
Comm:2079907176
DSN: 6987176