05/05/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/05/2025 06:31
Today, the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus leaders, Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Troy Balderson (R-OH), and Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), introduced a bipartisan resolution to commemorate May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Gary Peters (D-MI) introduced a companion resolution in the Senate.
"Across the country, and in Michigan, we have a passionate riding community, which I am proudly a member of," said Rep. Walberg. "The start of spring means a growing number of riders in Michigan are enjoying the open road and the benefits motorcycles bring. However, in 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 6,335 motorcycle fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative efforts to enhance motorcycle awareness and safety. This bipartisan, bicameral resolution serves as an important opportunity to encourage all road users to share the road, stay aware, and drive smart."
"Riding motorcycles is one of the simple pleasures in life," said Rep. Norcross. "To me, there's nothing better than exploring the outdoors on a motorcycle, taking in the fresh air and enjoying your surroundings. Everyone should have the opportunity to ride safely. Designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month will promote rider safety, education, and awareness to ensure we can all enjoy the open roads."
"Whether on pavement or off-road, riding has long been a passion of mine-and as one of the few motorcyclists in Congress, I'm proud to help give voice to the millions of Americans who ride," said Rep. Balderson. "As more riders begin to hit the road this year, let's recommit to safe riding practices and remind all motorists to share the road."
"Motorcycles are about freedom," said Rep. Van Orden. "As a lifelong motorcyclist myself, I know firsthand the joys that come with riding, but I also know that too many lives are lost each year in preventable accidents. Riders are out there every day, so let's look twice to save a life."
"From delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends, some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles," said Sen. Ernst. "As the weather warms up and folks hit the road, I'm excited to share my love of riding while highlighting safety and rider education this Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month."
"I firmly believe there is no better way to see the beauty of our state than on a motorcycle and keeping our roadways safe for both riders and drivers is extremely important to me," said Sen. Peters. "I'm proud to once again introduce this resolution recognizing the millions of riders in Michigan and across our country and encouraging everyone to use best practices that will keep folks safe on our roads."
Congressman Walberg serves as a co-chair of the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus. For more information on Walberg's work in Congress, visit walberg.house.gov.