IRVINE, Calif., May 23, 2008 – A resolution (H. Res. 339) introduced by U.S. Representatives Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX) and Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) supporting the goals of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives late Wednesday May 21. Every year, May is designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to encourage riders to always wear proper protective gear, never drink and ride, be properly licensed, and get training – and to remind all riders and motorists to always share the road. In addition to these messages, the resolution recognizes the important contribution that motorcycles make to our nation’s transportation mix and “encourages all road users to be more aware of motorcycles and motorcyclists’ safety.” Rep. Burgess summarized the resolution by stating, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. For riders, that means ride responsibly. For everyone else on the road, stay alert and don’t let dangerous distractions divert your attention from the road.” In remarks about the resolution, Giffords stated, “As a member of the House Science and Technology Committee, I am committed to working with all my constituents and colleagues in Congress to move our country forward and continue our tradition of international leadership on environmental issues. And I am proud that, as a motorcyclist for over 20 years, I am leaving a smaller footprint on our earth by just riding my bike.” She continued, “But, I do have concerns about road safety and that drivers sharing the road with me aren’t looking out for my well-being.” Duane Taylor, Government Relations Specialist for the Motorcycle Industry Council stated, “We would like to thank Representatives Burgess and Giffords, the other 20 cosponsors of the resolution and the House of Representatives for recognizing Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” “As the riding season opens in many parts of the country, this resolution presents an opportunity to remind all road users to look out for motorcyclists, as well as an opportunity to reinforce our message to all riders to wear all appropriate protective gear every time they ride,” said Kathy Van Kleeck, MIC’s Senior Vice President for Government Relations. Department of Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters issued a statement on the resolution when it was introduced, saying, “As an avid motorcyclist and crash survivor, I know how important it is to get more riders to wear helmets and practice safe riding skills. This resolution will help focus attention on the alarming number of motorcycle fatalities in this country, and will help promote long term solutions to the problem.” Representatives Burgess and Giffords are co-chairs of the Congressional Motorcycle Safety Caucus, a bipartisan group of Members of Congress committed to improving and advancing the safety of motorcyclists. They also recently joined Department of Transportation Secretary Mary Peters in kicking off Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month with a May 1st event on the Capitol Grounds. The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) is a not-for-profit, national trade association representing manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, scooters, motorcycle/ATV parts and accessories and members of allied trades, located in Irvine, California.