A few posts ago (http://www.trailtapes.com/archives/122) I mentioned the Bicycle Commuter Act that was before the US Congress. It has since been re-introduced as H.R. 1498 in the House and S. 858 in the Senate. The legislation would provide bicyclists with a similar tax benefit to that currently enjoyed by transit users and car parkers, through voluntary, employer-run programs. You can learn more about it from the League of American Bicyclists.

I sent a letter to my Senator, Barack Obama, asking for his support of S. 858 and received this reply:

Dear Chris,

Thank you for contacting me regarding S. 858, the Bicycle Commuters Benefits Act of 2007, which expands the tax incentive now available for public transit and drivers also to bicycle commuters. I believe the Bicycle Commuters Benefits Ace is sound policy and thus I have added my name as a cosponsor of this bill.

The benefits of commuting by bicycle is almost an endless list — reducing harmful emissions, reducing congestion, reducing petroleum consumption, promoting personal health — but our public policies have evolved to where smart and sustainable transportation uses are discouraged. Roads are designed without pedestrian or bike paths, office and shopping parks are designed around the automobile, and even the best transit systems may be incompatible with bike use. It is time to revisit all federal policies to better accommodate the energy and environmental health priorities of the 21st century.

Again, thank you for writing. Please stay in touch.

Sincerely,

Barack Obama

United States Senator