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It's highly unlikely that Congress will take any action on the transportation bill before the August recess. But things are not looking all that good for a bill that makes sense for cycling and walking. It's important to talk about this with Mike Thompson, Diane Feinstein, and Barbara Boxer if you meet them during the recess. Here's why:

Representative John Mica (R-FL), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, recently introduced an outline of his proposed transportation bill. The proposal eliminates all dedicated funding for bicycling and walking and maintains "eligibility" for these activities only if states choose to spend their funds on these kinds of activities. The details of the proposed Senate bill are not yet available.

If you are able, make time to meet with our Senators Boxer and Feinstein, and be sure to chat with Representative Thompson when they are back in their home districts.  It really helps when people speak up to show them how important bicycling is to their communities and why eligibility isn't enough. Take this opportunity to share your views on the benefits of investing in bicycling.  We hope you agree that allocating money for making cycling and walking safe for everyone is not frivolous spending and that the next transportation bill must retain dedicated funding for non-motorized projects and programs. For help on what to say, read our advocacy tips on building relationships with Congress.