Jon "Rogue" Herlihy

John “Rogue” Herlihy: The Unsung Hero of Motorcyclists’ Rights

In the realm of motorcyclists’ rights, few names resonate with as much passion and dedication as John “Rogue” Herlihy. With over 30 years of relentless advocacy under his belt, Rogue’s commitment to protecting riders’ freedoms has made a significant impact on the landscape of motorcycle legislation in the United States.

A Fight Against Helmet Laws

The turning point for motorcyclists came in 1966 when the Highway Safety Act mandated helmet use for riders across the nation. This federal initiative threatened states with the loss of highway funding if they failed to enact helmet laws. Connecticut, like many states, succumbed to this pressure, passing its helmet law in 1967. This prompted the formation of the Connecticut Motorcycle Association (CMA), an organization specifically created to combat this legislation and advocate for riders’ rights.

Under Rogue’s leadership, the CMA sprang into action, mobilizing motorcyclists across the state. They engaged in letter-writing campaigns, organized lobbying efforts, and staged helmet protests that attracted hundreds of passionate riders. Herlihy’s ability to inspire and unite the motorcycle community was evident, but he recognized that the fight needed to extend beyond state lines to achieve lasting change.

A National Effort

On July 31, 1975, a pivotal moment arrived when Rogue and a group of 15 motorcyclists’ rights activists traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend a hearing on HB 3869. This landmark legislation aimed to repeal the helmet law blackmail provision embedded within national highway bills. Rogue’s presence on the sign-in sheet marked his participation in the first concerted effort to challenge federal mandates that infringed upon states’ rights to govern their own helmet laws.

The activism of Rogue and his fellow riders bore fruit. The federal bill ultimately passed through Congress, granting states the autonomy to define their own motorcycle helmet laws. This victory laid the groundwork for the formation of State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organizations (SMROs) across the country, empowering riders to advocate for their rights on a local level.

A Legacy of Advocacy

John “Rogue” Herlihy’s tireless efforts in the fight for motorcyclists’ rights have not only shaped legislation but have also fostered a culture of advocacy within the motorcycle community. His ability to rally riders, articulate their concerns, and push for legislative change has inspired generations of activists to continue the fight.

Today, as Rogue remains active in his advocacy, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of grassroots efforts in effecting change. His legacy is not just in the victories won but also in the enduring spirit of camaraderie and determination he has instilled in motorcyclists across the nation.

In a world where the roar of engines often drowns out the voices of riders, John “Rogue” Herlihy stands as a testament to the idea that one person can make a difference. His journey exemplifies the ongoing battle for motorcyclists’ rights and the unwavering spirit of those who refuse to back down in the face of adversity.