US congressman wants to make Bike Month official

US congressman Earl Blumenauer, the Democrat representative for Oregon, has introduced a bill to officially recognize May as the US' national Bike Month.

US cyclists' rights organisation The League of American Bicyclists has celebrated National Bike Month in May since 1956. This legislation, which has bipartisan support, would make it official.

"Bicycling is one of the cleanest, healthiest, most efficient, and environmentally friendly modes of transportation that exists," Blumenauer said. "Cycling helps ease congestion on our roads and reduce environmental pollution while allowing Americans of all ages to incorporate exercise into their everyday lives. In an age of high energy prices, overcrowded roads, and a growing obesity epidemic, biking is more important to the well being of our communities than ever before."