I am all for, and completely support, the need for bicyclists to abide by the rules of the road, use hand signals and wear a helmet, etc… but this goes too far.
Michael DenDekker, the NYS Assembly Member from Queens, is proposing legislation that includes language which calls for a bicycle registration and inspection fee of $25 for every “private” bicyclist and $50 for “commercial” bicyclists, with a $5 fee every subsequent year to renew the license. For example, if this was to pass – my family would have to shell out $125 in order to continue riding our bicycles to school, work and for errands!
New York State Senator Mark Grisanti was quick to act issuing a statement yesterday strongly opposing the proposed legislation by saying, “In a day and age where we should be encouraging healthy travel and “green” living and during a time when gasoline prices have gone through the roof and are expected to rise even higher, I am strongly opposed to this proposal.”
Much more needs to be done to make it safe for all users of our roadways whether it’s through education, enforcement or encouragement programs such as Bicycle Benefits; a program Green Options Buffalo has brought to our city, which encourages bicycle riding and helmet use by working with local retailers to provide discounts to members. There are many ways to encourage people to perform the appropriate behaviors that act as a carrot as opposed to the stick.
For the same $25 this tax is proposing, cyclists can gain access to our community workshop where they can learn how to safely maintain their bicycles, properly tune their brakes and add reflectors if necessary. There are also options available for those who can’t afford this fee. We should be encouraging programs like these that help people control their budgets, promote health and wellness and contribute to environmental sustainability in our community rather than punishing people for taking these positive steps.
If we keep going at this rate though, next up will be a bicycle emissions test – be sure to lay off the tofu.