Anti-Cycling Bill Introduced To NYC City Council

NOVEMBER 22, 2004 -- NEW YORK, NY (BRAIN)--A draconian anti-cycling bill that could reduce by 50 percent the number of people cycling in New York City was recently introduced to the New York City Council.

According to New York City's Transportation Alternatives, "If passed, Int. No. 497 would require every bicycling New Yorker over sixteen years old to obtain bicycle license tags from the NYC Department of Transportation. The bill stipulates that those who do not display such tags on their bicycles (could) be subject to up to 15 days imprisonment in addition to hefty fines and bicycle confiscation."

As written, Int. No. 497 does not make an exception for cyclists visiting New York City individually or on club rides or to take part in events such as Transportation Alternatives' NYC Century Bike Tour or Bike New York.

The bill was introduced by Councilmember Madeline Provenzano. Councilmember Provenzano's staff said her intent is to make it easier for law enforcement agencies to hold reckless cyclists accountable. However, Councilmember Provenzano's staff has acknowledged that, "the bill is not informed by formal conversations with any law enforcement personnel."

The League of American and Transportation Alternatives believe that Int. No. 497 will not be a deterrent to reckless cyclists and will only discourage law-abiding cyclists from cycling in New York City.

Transportation Alternatives has information about the bill on its web site, along with a form email you can send to council member Provenzano protesting the bill.

Earlier this month a federal judge denied the City of Manhattan's request to require Critical Mass riders to obtain a police permit.

Posted by nimzie at November 22, 2004 06:24 PM

---