Okay I am looking through all the MRA materials and compiling a cost list in order to start racing for a first time novice racer.

Assuming you have a working street bike. The next step would be to race prep it according to MRA standards.

Race Prep - minimum $600 (case covers, safety wired, track bodywork)
Some stuff people may already have on it but most stuff probably not.
A decent set up tires to last you a couple races - $250
MRA Race school - $200
MRA competition license - $100
Transponder - $250
AMA membership (why?) - $40
Tire Warmers - $250
General Pit equipment necessary for racing - $200

SO. Before a novice rider can even step FOOT on the grid, they have to shell out somewhere around the vicinity of $1800.

For me. To dump that much money into an activity that I do not even know is worth it yet because I have never done it, is logically asinine.

If you really want to see more novice racers on the grid. Stagger the costs depending on the classes. If it really does go to Nov-A Nov-B Nov-C. Make it a cost ladder all the way up to expert.