Promoting Biking and Walking: The Legislative Role

Publication Date:

Publisher: National Conference of State Legislatures

Author(s): L.T. Robbins; L. Morandi

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Abstract:

In 2002, our Active Living by Design program commissioned the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) to conduct a study of state policies that directly or indirectly promote biking and walking to achieve public health benefits. NCSL's findings are based on statutory research, interviews using the survey instrument, and informal discussions with legislators. This report addresses legislative concerns by answering such questions as: Which policies are most important to encourage walking and biking? Which policies are most likely to be adopted? Which level of government is most responsible for adopting and implementing policies that encourage walking and biking? Which legislative committees need to be involved in policy discussions? What are the most appropriate roles of the legislature in adopting policies? The research is presented in three formats: an analysis of policy approaches chosen by legislators as most important for encouraging walking and biking, a comparative matrix of state policy indicators that serves as a "map" of existing legislation, and narrative summaries of some policy options that legislatures have enacted or discussed but that have not been signed into law. Based on interviews, the following five policy options appear to have the greatest potential to encourage walking and biking: (1) sidewalks and bike lanes into community design; (2) funding for biking and walking in highway projects; (3) safe routes to school; (4) traffic-calming measures; and (5) incentives for mixed-use development. An additional goal in compiling this data is to create in legislators an awareness of the potential for collaborative efforts of several programs - including health, environment, transportation and education - to promoting walking and biking.