Sanny,
Keep up the good work! Just don't lean too hard on pushing for more enforcement as a contingency for correcting the "bad" law. If you tie "fixing the bad law" to "get more $$ for enforcement" it'll likely be delayed until they find more $$ for enforcement.
The comparison is good, and the logical vs illogical contrast is effective.
Now, just to write the new bill...got a sharp pen?
But, seriously, now may be the *perfect* time to compile an information packet for your rep on hydrolocking, how water can splash up, the damage done (scored cylinders- ouch!), and the fact that warranty is VOID on this $6k-$12k machine because of water in the cylinder.
Once he sees some good info of the risk of uncovered loss his constituents are facing, and the fact that this law is essentially *prohibiting* people from protecting their investments, he may understand better.
Don't know if you can get any stats from Arctic Cat or other groups as to how many ATVs are damaged by water in a given year and the estimated cost of repairs. They may not want to release that info, but it shouldn't be a risky or "at fault" piece of info for the ATV company.
You've found a good rep, it seems.
Here is the best advice I can give wrt political efforts.
1. Always be complete and correct. Don't skew any facts. Clearly distinguish fact from opinion and logical conclusions from speculation.
2. Cite your sources and always make sure they are reliable and respected in the industry.
3. Always be courteous, and direct in the *specific action* you wish taken.
4. Respond quickly to any requests for info or support.
5. Try to provide "quick study" guides for your proponent so he/she can speak intelligently and confidently on the subject in front of his peers and industry personnel. NEVER let them walk into an ambush unprepared or with incorrect info.
6. Find the best possible winning scenario to make your rep look good, caring, and intelligent.
If your rep is willing to listen and take on your cause, then do what you can to help your rep. Make them look good and give them anything you can to take as little of their time and mitigate as much risk as possible. After all, you want this person to keep fighting the good fight.
And with each success, you increase the odds of your rep taking on any future requests. Pick your battles carefully.
BTW, since you have a responsive rep, why not start a document "ATV Bill of Rights and Responsibililties" to set a national standard for rights, privileges, and responsibilities for all ATVers nationwide.
I'm sure a lot of people here would be willing to collaborate to make an effective document. It could be a great model for other states, too.
After all, your rep may need a bill to promote, and words like "Bill of Rights," "No Taxation without Representation," "Respect for the Environment," "Responsibility to fellow citizens," etc.... work well in the public eye.
Just a thought
-DiskDoctr