Bicycle Commuter Act signed into law

Another win for the efforts of the League of American Bicyclists and those who have attended the National Bike Summit in recent years.

One of the legislative advocacy priorities for the Bike Summit in recent years has been the Bicycle Commuter Act.

The act is really on of those no brainers--it's a simple, inexpensive, proven way to help encourage more bicycle commuting. It's not going to solve our energy crisis, our healthcare crisis, our greenhouse gas crisis, or our obesity crisis.

But it's a simple, sensible, inexpensive, reasonable step towards solving all of those problems that will deliver a lot of bang for the buck.

A summary of the act is here.

Matthew Banks, Director of Membership for the League of American Bicyclists sent along the following announcement and summary:

After seven long years, the bicycle commuter tax provision has finally
passed both the House and Senate as part of the financial bailout package.
President Bush has said that he is eager to sign the legislation.

"We are delighted that the bicycle commuter benefits act has passed after a lengthy
and persistent campaign spearheaded by Congressman Blumenauer (D-OR)," said
League President Andy Clarke. "Bicycle commuters will now be extended
similar benefits to people who take transit and drive to work – it's an
equitable and sensible incentive to encourage greater energy independence,
improve air quality and health, and even help tackle climate change. Thanks
to everyone who has helped reach this milestone, especially Walter Finch and
Mele Williams, our government relations staff over the years who have worked
tirelessly with Congressman Blumenauer, Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and many
others in Congress."

Thanks also to all of you around the country who have contacted your
congressional leaders over the years. Keep checking back at
http://www.bikeleague.org as we work on the implementation process.

UPDATE: President Bush signed the bill into law that same afternoon.

The Bicycle Commuter Act takes effect Dec 31st, 2008--so employers could begin offering this fringe benefit as soon as the 2009 year.