# Plain Language Summary: Bikeshare Transit Act of 2021

This bill makes it easier for cities and communities to get federal funding to build and expand bikeshare programs—those systems where you can rent bikes from stations around town and return them elsewhere. Right now, bikeshare projects have a harder time accessing certain federal transportation money compared to other transit options. This bill changes that by officially recognizing bikeshare as a legitimate transportation project that qualifies for federal grants and support.

The bill does this in two main ways. First, it adds bikeshare to the list of projects that can receive money from federal transit programs. Second, it makes bikeshare eligible for federal funding designed to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. This is the same type of funding that currently supports things like carsharing programs and public transportation improvements. By adding bikeshare to these funding categories, the bill removes barriers that have prevented communities from using federal money to launch or expand bike rental systems.

Who benefits? Cities and towns that want to start bikeshare programs or expand existing ones will have an easier time securing federal funding to pay for bikes, stations, and maintenance. Residents in those communities could gain access to affordable, convenient transportation options that reduce car traffic and pollution. The bill particularly helps lower-income communities that might not have the local funding to build these systems on their own. Essentially, this bill treats bikeshare as a serious transportation solution worthy of the same federal investment as other transit options, making it more feasible for communities across the country to offer this service to their residents.

Bikeshare Transit Act of 2021

Blumenauer, Earl

Bikeshare Transit Act of 2021 This bill allows bikeshare projects to be eligible for federal funding. The bill also makes shared micromobility (including bikesharing and shared scooter systems) projects eligible for funds if they shift traffic demand to non-peak hours or other transportation modes, increase vehicle occupancy rates, or otherwise reduce demand for roads.