The Bike Commuter Act of 2007: Have you written your Congressman?

Today I sent emails to the folks representing New Mexico in Congress.

Have you written your letter or email?

Below is the text of the email I sent. You are welcome to borrow the ideas and the format. Just get your fingers typing.

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"I am writing to respectfully urge you to cosponsor and support The Bike Commuter Act, H.R.1498/S. 858.

The Bicycle Commuter Act would extend the definition of the Transportation Fringe Benefit in Section 132 (f) of the 1986 IRS code to include bicycles with the phrase “bicycle commuting allowance.” The program is voluntary for employers and would allow them to provide tax-exempt compensation to employees for those costs incurred by bike commuting, such as lights, bike maintenance, raingear, panniers, parking (locker rental) and changing facilities. The tax code currently allows employers to compensate employees in this manner for the costs incurred through commuting to work by car, vanpooling, or mass transit. Sadly, the tax code does not presently include bicycles.

Global warming, the impact of obesity on our national health, alternative-energy and low emission vehicles, and reducing dependence on foreign oil are all serious topics faced by New Mexicans and by our national community. Bike commuting is not a magical solution to these challenges but it can have a significant and constructive impact on them all. How?

I am a bike commuter living in Albuquerque. I bike 20 miles a day, 100 miles a week, almost 5000 miles a year to and from work. I have lost 20 pounds since I began commuting by bike almost a year ago. I have saved nearly $3000 in gas expenses during that time. Sweat and my own huffing, puffing breath are the only emissions produced as I propel my bike along the road.

I am just a single commuter. I have made difference.

Please cosponsor H.R. 1498/S. 858. Your support of bike commuting will encourage others to make a difference in their lives and communities in the most positive of ways.

Thank you greatly for your time and consideration of this matter. I look forward to hearing from you."