This just in from the League of Michigan Bicyclists. We could use cyclists contacting their State Representative and Senator to make sure these bills get passed.

Legislative Action Alert

Tell your Legislator to Support HB 6299 and HB 6300, make roads safer for cyclists.

Representatives Andy Coulouris (D-Saginaw) and David Palsrok (R-Manistee) on June 29 introduced House Bills 6299 and 6300, which enhance penalties for moving violations causing physical injury or death to bicyclists and other vulnerable roadway users.

Senator Tom George (R-Kalamazoo) has committed to introduce Senate companion bills with the same language. (Check www.LMB.org/advocacycenter.htm) for future information, including Senate bill numbers and co-sponsors.)

A teen on a bike deserves the same protection as one driving a tractor. These bills will make Michigan roadways safer for bicyclists and all vulnerable users of our taxpayer-funded road system.
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Michigan state forest recreation relies primarily on three funding sources: camping fees, taxpayer support (general fund), and a portion of the fuel taxes (used primarily for capital improvements.) Without these funds, state forest campgrounds and state forest pathways could not afford to keep these facilities open and functional.

When the state legislature cut the taxpayer support to this program, the DNR was forced to close 20 state forest campgrounds which were bringing in the least revenue.

Fortunately either the public outcry or common sense forced a reversal. The legislature just restored the funding.

Below is the list of campgrounds which will be re-opened. The DNR expects the re-opens to by mid-May though some campgrounds “will require maintenance repairs to the water wells during the month of May.” (more…)