U.S. House of Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) announced on Friday, March 29, the Bicycle Instruction, Knowledge, and Education Act to ensure that federal funds from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) grants are used for bicycle education and assistance. (BIKE) law has been introduced. Safety program.
According to NHTSA, the number of bicyclists killed in traffic accidents has been steadily increasing since 2010. Research has shown that not only did students who participated in bicycle education programs significantly improve their knowledge of bicycle safety, their participation also changed their parents' attitudes. Behaviors and attitudes towards cyclists reflect generational influences on road safety and make roads safer for all users.
“Safe riding and driving habits start with education at an early age, and expanding access to bicycle education programs will create safer roads for both bicycles and motorists,” said Congressman Seth Magaziner. said. “I’m proud to introduce the Bicycle Act, which will help Americans grow up to value road safety, whether it’s on two wheels or a rear wheel.”
The NHTSA Section 402 and Section 405 grant programs support state efforts to address traffic safety, including public education and awareness about traffic laws. Each year, each state must develop a highway safety plan that outlines how to use 402 and 405 funds, but federal law and federal guidance currently limit funding to support bicycle education.
The Bicycle Act clarifies that bicycle education programs should be eligible for NHTSA grants and requires states to direct NHTSA to utilize Section 402 and Section 405 funds for bicycle education and safety programs for students. We are calling for updated guidance to encourage Instilling these values at a young age will help them develop confidence on the road and understand the importance of protecting vulnerable road users.
“We are very pleased that Magaziner representatives have introduced the BIKE Act,” said Bari Freeman, Executive Director of Bike Newport. “Here in Rhode Island, we are fortunate to have access to NHTSA funding for in-school, after-school, and summer camp bicycle safety programs thanks to RIDOT, and this important legislation will expand these efforts. More federal funding to support. Teaching bicycle skills from an early age leads to safe and frequent bicycling. We are improving healthy and safe cycling. We want more kids everywhere to have access to the programs we encourage. Thank you, Magazine!”
“Kids are empowered when they ride bikes, but they also need to be safe while riding,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the Federation of American Bicyclists. “By incorporating cycling education into schools, we ensure that children develop healthy, lifelong habits and learn important road safety skills that will carry them into adulthood, whether on a bike, on foot, in transit or in a car. We applaud the introduction of the Bicycle Act, as it will make cycling education eligible for existing funding for road safety awareness.”
“The Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition wholeheartedly supports Representative’s BIKE Act, which would make NHTSA funds available for bicycle education. We are committed to helping young people ride safely and develop lifelong skills. We are excited about the possibility of expanding our in-school programs,” said Kathleen Gannon, Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition Board Chair.
“We at the Woonasquatucket River Basin Council, Donnie Greene, Director of Bicycle Programs for the Woonasquatucket River Basin Council, are excited to hear that Congressman Magazinger has approved the BIKE Act to expand federal funding for bicycle education programs. We're excited to introduce it.” “Since 2019, we have partnered with RIDOT to bring the Rhode to Bicycle Safety program to fifth-grade classrooms across Rhode Island, and this legislation provides additional funding to support these important programs. More funding is possible.’ We teach over 1,000 students each year how to ride a bike safely and confidently. We believe all children have the right to enjoy the joy and independence that cycling provides, and these programs ensure children have the skills and knowledge they need to ride safely. I will make it possible for you to wear it. ”