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Originally Posted by Fat Jack
Dave,
My "out-of-staters" term was not meant to be derogatory. It was quoted directly from the post I mentioned. Sorry if it offended. I agree that anyone who pays taxes in NH or contributes to the NH economy has a right to influence this bill, whether or not they are resident, a registered voter, or a native. I just get tired of reading posts by the opposition on other forums that are specifically directed to out-of-state boaters or to national go-fast groups, while they pretend here that they are representing "NH's recreational boaters" (including the sailboaters and kayers depicted on their websites). Then they call me a liar.
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by Fat Jack
Dave,
My "out-of-staters" term was not meant to be derogatory. It was quoted directly from the post I mentioned. Sorry if it offended. I agree that anyone who pays taxes in NH or contributes to the NH economy has a right to influence this bill, whether or not they are resident, a registered voter, or a native. I just get tired of reading posts by the opposition on other forums that are specifically directed to out-of-state boaters or to national go-fast groups, while they pretend here that they are representing "NH's recreational boaters" (including the sailboaters and kayers depicted on their websites). Then they call me a liar.
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I wasn't referring to any particular comment. Perhaps it's an attitude your posts project that sets people off, but I have noted that things tend to get nastier after you post.
I don't plan to contact my legislators since I am not all that riled up about this bill, and it won't make any difference to me if it passes or not. I have never felt I was in danger from a fast boat. VErey close call I have ever dealt with has been with people in "regular" boats who just were not following the rules. I have little faith in most citizens to make a good choice about things such as this, but hope our elected officials vote with their heads and not their emotions.
The only reasons given thus far to support this bill have nothing to do with facts and everything to do with feelings. People feel sad because their neighbor was killed by a jerk who was driving a boat capable of high speeds, people feel the lake is scary (it is at times, but not due to speed, think Eagle Island on 7-4) people feel that speed kills, etc. No facts to show a true problem with high speeds, just feelings. I respect and fully understand those feelings but the realist in me says: "that's not enough".
You have stated we should pass this law just to stop the quibbling and opining about what defines "excessive" speed. Do you honestly think this, or emotions, are a good reason to pass a law? Is this really a precedent we wish to set? What if the majority of the population is scared of young black men hooded sweatshirts? Would you really want a law outlawing them in the state?