BOULDER, CO (BRAIN)—Bikes Belong Coalition released a new tip sheet that will help bike companies conduct easy and effective in-district meetings with members of Congress. Letting representatives know that “Bikes Mean Business” is essential to making the case for continued federal investment in bicycling.
Bike business leaders can play a powerful role in assuring federal support for biking. In this tight economy, the business voice is extra important. Congress has traditionally played the leading role in investing in bike paths, trails, bridges, underpasses, and beneficial programs like Safe Routes to School. This guide explains how to schedule a congressional meeting and suggests tips for before, during, and after the event. The bike industry’s vocal support for these investments will help business and help bicycling.
In-district meetings are also good for those who can’t attend the annual National Bike Summit, or who simply want to get more involved with advocacy. “The bicycle industry creates jobs and generates tax revenue, two things that Congress is focusing on these days,” said Tim Blumenthal, president of Bikes Belong. “Holding a meeting in your district is an effective way to advocate for bicycling.”
With the recent calls from Rep. John Mica and Sen. James Inhofe to eliminate federal bike funding, the “Bikes Mean Business” message needs to be communicated now more than ever.
The two-page guide is available as a web resource at www.bikesbelong.org/bikebiztipsheet (click on above link).
