Great news for anyone who rides a bicycle in Washington: thanks to the tireless efforts of advocates all across Washington three bills passed the 2005 legislature that will help make bicycling safer for all users.  The bills include:
·        HB 1108 which prohibits passing when bicyclists, pedestrians, law enforcement or farm equipment is in view and approaching from the opposite direction. 
·        HB 1254 creates a Share the Road license plate available for purchase in late '05 or early '06 with the funds to be used for bicycle and pedestrian education and safety programs; and
·        SB 5186 calls for comprehensive plans to include an inventory of bicycle and pedestrian facilities. 

A BIG thank you to everyone who sent an email, called or wrote to their legislator.  And MORE THANKS to the many legislators who sponsored these bills and voted to help make Washington a better and safer place to ride your bike.

Funding for bike routes and connections and safe routes to school is included in the Senate transportation budget.  As of this writing, we're waiting to see how much is included in the House budget and how the two will be reconciled.  Neither version will create the bigger revenue sources we were asking for but bicycling is getting recognized as an important transportation option.

Thanks,
Barbara

Barbara Culp
Executive Director
Bicycle Alliance of Washington
PO Box 2904
Seattle, WA 98111
206/224-9252

Promoting bicycling for everyday transportation and recreation through advocacy and education.