PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Forty-two members of the 113th Congress were honored today by the American Motorcyclist Association for their support of motorcyclists’ rights and issues of importance to motorcycling.

“These lawmakers have demonstrated an interest in and support for the issues that most directly affect the motorcycling community, and we take great pleasure in honoring them for their efforts,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations and a former U.S. senator and U.S. representative from Colorado.

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.), former Arkansas Rep. and current Arkansas Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin (R), and Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Joe Manchin III (D-W.Va.) were recognized as AMA Heroes. “Hero” awards are presented for extraordinary efforts to support motorcyclists and motorcycling.

These four scored highest in the AMA’s rankings on issues affecting motorcyclists and each legislator assumed a leadership role. Walberg opposed the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s mission creep into motorcycle safety. Griffin co-chaired the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus and was an outspoken motorcycling advocate, hosting the first ever “Ridin’ with your Rep” townhall meeting. Shaheen led the effort to ban the use of federal funds for motorcycle-only checkpoints and supported the Recreational Trails Program. Manchin — also a rider — tied for the highest score in the Senate and has been a staunch supporter of motorcyclists’ rights for years.

The AMA also recognized 15 “Champions” for outstanding efforts to motorcyclists and motorcycling. Another 23 lawmakers received “Supporter” awards for their positions on motorcycling issues.

“The AMA thanks these federal legislators for their public service and for their support of America’s motorcyclists and the freedom to ride,” Allard said.

A presentation ceremony organized by the AMA Government Relations Department took place today at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C.

Click the following link to download a list of all lawmakers receiving awards from the AMA: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Libraries/Rights_Documents_Federal/2015_GRD_Congressional_Awards_Full_List.sflb.ashx?download=true

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.