3.14.2014

3.12.2014

Effecting Change: Why did USAC Restrict One-Day License Availability?

Problem: The governing body for bike racing in the US made a rule change that negatively impacts occasional amateur racers.

Details:

In order to participate in many cycling events, riders must purchase a license through USAC. In the past, riders of all but the elite levels could choose to purchase either a one-day license ($10) or an annual license ($60, or $90 if participating in both road and mountain disciplines. Either worked for cyclocross). In 2014, USAC changed the rules as follows:
  • One-day licenses are now $15. 
  • One-day licenses are not available for anything but the beginner category.
  • If you have EVER possessed an annual license, you cannot purchase a one-day license. 
  • An annual license now covers all disciplines, and costs $70. 
Why this is problematic:

Let's say I decide to have a baby. After giving birth, I probably won't want to race a full calendar of races, not nearly enough to justify a $70 license to do a race or two. But I can imagine it would feel really good to get back out there for my favorite race of the season. However, because I have held an annual license for the last 4 years, I would be ineligible to participate.

I can think of many examples, but I'll leave it at one. I'd like to hear what others think, too.
 
Context: I'm studying civic engagement, democratic participation, and effecting change in the face of decisions made that negatively impact the less powerful.

Action: This is where I need help. I've seen some pushback on Twitter and a few blogs, but that's not effecting change...yet. How can we work together to point out the negative consequences and hopefully find a solution/policy change?

If you are upset about this change, let's work together instead of complaining in isolation, let action win over cynicism.
USA Cycling has changed the rules regarding ONE-DAY (Beginner) licenses ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are $15. ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are no longer available for any riders racing as a men's 4,3,2,1, or Pro or for women 3,2,1, or Pro. ONE-DAY licenses are also no longer available for anyone who has ever possessed a USAC license. - See more at: http://303cycling.com/node/6213#sthash.aTwxyfP6.dpuf
USA Cycling has changed the rules regarding ONE-DAY (Beginner) licenses ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are $15. ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are no longer available for any riders racing as a men's 4,3,2,1, or Pro or for women 3,2,1, or Pro. ONE-DAY licenses are also no longer available for anyone who has ever possessed a USAC license. - See more at: http://303cycling.com/node/6213#sthash.aTwxyfP6.dpuf
USA Cycling has changed the rules regarding ONE-DAY (Beginner) licenses ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are $15. ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are no longer available for any riders racing as a men's 4,3,2,1, or Pro or for women 3,2,1, or Pro. ONE-DAY licenses are also no longer available for anyone who has ever possessed a USAC license. - See more at: http://303cycling.com/node/6213#sthash.aTwxyfP6.dpuf
USA Cycling has changed the rules regarding ONE-DAY (Beginner) licenses ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are $15. ONE-DAY USA Cycling licenses are no longer available for any riders racing as a men's 4,3,2,1, or Pro or for women 3,2,1, or Pro. ONE-DAY licenses are also no longer available for anyone who has ever possessed a USAC license. - See more at: http://303cycling.com/node/6213#sthash.aTwxyfP6.dpuf