NATIONAL: Active Community Transportation Bill (HR.4722)

The nation's premier walk/bike politico US Rep. Earl Blumenhauer (OR) introduced a proposed Active Community Transportation bill (aka the "ACT act") that could transform our country's transformation network – by creating a $2 billion program to fund dozens of communities' work to improve their trail, walking and biking networks.

This bill is laying the terrain for the upcoming re-authorization of the massive federal transportation bill. Read the background on the ACT act. US Rep. Peter Welch has very recently signed on as a co-sponsor of the bill. Send Peter a quick email thanking him for his support.

Thanks to the Rails To Trails Conservancy for leading this effort.

STATE: Ban on Texting While Driving (S.280)

The VT Senate passed a bill that just bans texting while driving. The House amended the bill to also require drivers to use hands-free equipment, to prohibit drivers under 18 from using any phone or device, and to prohibit young motorists from late night driving without parental consent.

Now the two chambers must hammer out their differences. The bill is currently in the Senate Transportation Committee as they figure out their next move.

Help make sure a compromise is struck. Contact your Senators and Representatives and urge them to find a compromise on this critical road safety issue.