According to Denver’s Channel 7 News, biker clubs are convinced that hotels, restaurants and stores frequently discriminate against them because of how they dress. In response to claims of discrimination against bikers, State Representative Joe Miklosi has proposed a measure that would add “unconventional attire” to the state law barring discrimination in public accommodations.

Ray Hoskinson, a Denver retiree and a member of a local chapter of the Veterans of Vietnam America Motorcycle Club, feels he and his group have earned the right to wear what they like. “It’s a First Amendment issue,” Ray said. “They tell us we can’t come in because of what we’re wearing on our backs, when we fought and died for that First Amendment right.”

Unfortunately, the bill faces long odds, and even a certain amount of derision.

“That’s the goofiest bill I ever heard of in my life,” said Republican Rep. Jim Kerr, chair of the committee responsible for deciding the fate of the bill. “If I have a business or something and I don’t think it’s appropriate to have guys in leather jackets or something, now I have to serve them? I don’t think so.”

We can see where both sides are coming from. However, not all bikers are rowdy criminals, and businesses have an obligation to treat people fairly.

The bill may not pass, but the questions it raises are certainly worthy of consideration.

The Metier Law Firm, LLC – Denver accident attorneys