I am writing today to state my opposition to bill number AB52 that changes the driving age. This bill is not in the interests of the people of Wisconsin, nor does it send the right message the youthful persons.

First, I believe that your interpretation of statistics to be incorrect. The position that you have brought forth is that younger people tend to be involved in driving accidents more often that older people. However, if this interpretation of the facts is moot. The facts indicate that all persons who have recently begun driving are likely to be involved in collisions while driving regardless of age. To say that teenagers are more likely simply because there's more young drivers in their age group is invalid. In fact, it is discriminatory. I do not like the idea of changing the age in the first place, but I wouldn't find the AB52 to be so odious should it discriminate against all new drivers equally (without a statement regarding age) as well as elderly drivers.

Second, this bill sends the wrong message to youth. From what I know, most youth feel completely misunderstood by adults and utterly misrepresented in government. From what I know, most youth want to take on more responsibility not less. The government needs to give them a feeling that they are beneficial to the well-being of society, and not that they are ignorant criminals. This bill will not build self confidence, nor will it make better drivers. It will make bitter people, andthat is not an advisable goal to pursue.

Third, this bill is undemocratic. This country was founded in the belief that the people that are affected by the government can decide the make-up of the government itself. This means that the people who are affected can vote. I see it as highly discriminatory to make laws that are not in the best interests of youth -- who in fact cannot change or fight the law through Constitutional channels. It is my opinion, as your constituent, that amends be made to allow youth to actively support oroppose this piece of legislation before it can be voted on. Moreover, it is undemocratic to oppress a group on the basis on acondition that they are powerless to change (such as age, race, gender, etc.).

Fourth, it has been cited that youth constitute a high number of traffic accidents. However, you must remember that there are thousands of drivers out there in their teenage years that are responsible persons. I do not see the reason that these responsible people should be oppressed out of the fear of that small percent that aren't. Looking at the facts, that small number that cannot handle the responsibility of driving should be punished -- not all youth as a whole. Perhaps a bill that

would levy heavier fines for traffic violations for people of all ages and types would prove to be more effective. Then, the punishment would go to those who deserve it. This would create an incentive to drive better, which is absent in AB52.

This bill (AB52) makes no sense. It is based upon dubious information, it would have ill consequences, it is un-American and it is unsubstantiated. It is my recommendation, as your constituent, that this bill does not pass and that it does not become law. This bill is not what Wisconsin needs or wants.

Sincerely,

Nicholas L. Aschbrenner