I'm not one to talk in terms of big picture politics, but I feel this information needs to be shared. Tucked away into the recent bailout bill is the Bicycle Commuter Act. This allows benefits to those who bike to work.

 Sec. 211. Transportation fringe benefit to bicycle commuters

Allows employers to provide a benefit to employees for costs associated with bicycle commuting, including purchase and repair of a bicycle, bicycle improvements, and bicycle storage. This provision was proposed in 2007 in the Senate by Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) and in the House by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). This provision is estimated to cost $10 million.

I believe the company has to provide the bicycle commuter with a benefit or an incentive for riding to work. Then the company can get a tax benefit for doing so. The standard bicycle commuter can get about $20 a month in tax breaks.

So, this new incentive for biking to work gives me yet another chance to encourage more people to do so. Aside from biking being great fun, it's also good exercise and a thousand times better for the environment than driving. It wouldn't hurt in this country of obese people to start commuting to work on bike. I do it. You can complain that it takes longer, that benefits are not good enough, that you'll be sweaty and smelly all day at work, but there are solutions to all of these problems.

In my experience, I get places faster when on bike - unless commuting GREAT distance. This is an entirely different issue that I don't want to get into now, but people should be working close to where they live, it's better for the environment and the economy and just makes more sense. You can pass heavy traffic and you don't have to worry about parking.

The sweaty, stinky issue is more difficult. Both my places of employment have the luxury of a shower. I don't use it, but it is an incentive for those worried about the gross factor of biking to work. For those not fortunate enough to have a shower bring deodorant with you or keep a little in your desk. Most work places do have bathrooms with sinks. If you're really self conscious or just don't like being sticky, bring or keep a washcloth and some soap - I recommend a biodegradable type like Dr. Bronners or Trader Joe's brand Pure Castille Soap.

Ask your employers, bring up Section 211 of the bailout bill, it can't hurt. Talk to your coworkers as well, urge them to do the same, or at least help you in your quest.

If that isn't enough for you, just think about the environment.

I seriously urge people to bike, more than ever, now that there is another incentive to do so. I've been doing it for a while and will be happy to help people through problems they encounter.