So, it's passed -- the bike bill that folks were debating so hotly on some of the Press Herald Web pages. The Legislature passed it Friday and the Gov is expected to sign it. As reported by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, here are some of the main features:
> Motorists must give cyclists three feet of clearance.
> Motorists may cross the centerline in no-passing zones in order to pass bicyclists when safe to do so.
> There's a $25 fine for those 15 and under who fail to wear a helmet. (Youth can be fined after the second or subsequent offense, but the fine can be waived by showing proof that a helmet has been purchased.)
> The law clarifies the rule that requires cyclists to ride to the right. The bill recognizes numerous situations when bicyclists need to move from the right portion of the roadway such as avoiding obstacles, proceeding straight near right-turn lanes or preparing to turn left.
> The law waives liability for businesses with drive-up windows that serve cyclists.

I never realized I couldn't ride up to the ATM. I hope this doesn't encourage cyclists to go through the Starbucks drive-through; I've seen a few people riding with coffee cups in one hand and really, what are they thinking?

I like the helmet fines too. At the very least, it gives parents some leverage with their kids. Now if a kid protests wearing a helmet, a parent can say, "It's the LAW" and take the fine out of their allowance.