March - April 2007

NYPD to Bicyclists – 50 is Too Many

The New York Police Department (NYPD) amended City rules on Jan. 26, 2007, to describe any “recognizable group” of 50 or more pedestrians, bicyclists, vehicles or other gatherings on a public street or roadway as a “parade.”

This means the police could arrest people in those groups for parading without a permit, even if they are obeying all traffic regulations.

The new rules took effect on Feb. 25.

Although these rules appear to be targeting the monthly Critical Mass rides, they also affect the 5BBC’s day trips program. The 5BBC Executive Board remains opposed to the NYPD’s overreaching regulations, which we believe violate the civil liberties of all New Yorkers.

If you have not already contacted your City Council member, please do so NOW and ask them to support the Assemble for Rights NYC First Amendment Act (please visit http:a4myc.org), which would protect free speech while preserving public safety. Adapted from current 5BBC website news.

P.S. On Feb. 25, President Ed DeFreitas got a parade permit for his Frostbite Ride. NYPD stood by and didn’t check for the permit as the ride attracted 25 people.