I was reading about North Dakota "bicycle tax" on the forums. This gave me the idea to search my state legislature's web site for "bicycle." I wasn't expecting to find what I did:
VERMONT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES -- First Reading: 01/14/2003
§ 1136a. BICYCLE REGISTRATION
(a) Bicycles used on public highways by persons over 15 years of age shall be registered. The annual fee shall be $15.00. The fee for one month shall be $8.00. Registrations may be issued by any town clerk or by anyone selling bicycle touring services within the state. Registration stickers shall be supplied by the department of motor vehicles. The person issuing the registration shall retain $1.00 and remit the balance to the department of motor vehicles.
Status of bill:
http://www.leg.state.vt.us/database/...3&Session=2004
Text of bill:
http://www.leg.state.vt.us/docs/legd...ntro/H-003.HTM
I don't know about other Vermont bicyclists, but I'm certainly not going to fork over $15/yr PER BIKE!
Anyone on a bicycle tour through Vermont would also conceivably have to pay $15 per bike per year or $8 per bike per month.
The bill is currently in the State House of Representatives. It looks like it has gone to the House Transportation Commitee.
I will write to my representatives and notify the local bicycling club and pedestrian/bike coalition. Any other ideas? What do you think of this bill?