The Texas Legislature got off to a thundering start Monday after a week off as a parade of motorcyclists roared down Congress Avenue toward the Capitol.

The smell of well-worn leather wafted through the Capitol corridors when thousands of motorcyclists clad in black jackets with a myriad bright-colored patches, do-rags and dark shades descended on the rotunda to lobby lawmakers on helmet laws, insurance reform and penalties for failing to yield.

Democrat Rep. Norma Chavez of El Paso sported her own black leather vest with “Legislative Warrior'' emblazoned on the back.

The Texas Motorcycle Rights Association gave it to her. She presented the motorcyclists in the House.

“I'm proud to introduce and acknowledge the presence of a group of freedom fighters, defenders of the Texas Constitution and the U.S. Constitution. These great citizens are Texas motorcycle enthusiasts,'' she said.

In December, Chavez became the first Texas legislator to be issued a state official license plate for her Harley Davidson Sportster.