June 9, 2020 Update: See the League's Statement on our plans to assess and update the Enforcement section of the BFA applications.

Historically, Enforcement in the Bicycle Friendly America programs has focused on the laws that govern people driving and biking and how law enforcement works to implement those laws. It has long been our understanding that basic laws and regulations aimed at decreasing dangerous driving behaviors, along with good network design, are essential to ensuring safety for all road users. However, as we fight traffic violence and support our partners at the local level who are removing barriers to cycling, it has become clear at this time that we must pause our Enforcement section of applications and the promotion of policing as a safety solution.

As part of our anti-racist evaluation of the Bicycle Friendly America program, the League is considering completely removing Enforcement from our 6 E Framework. As we explore the future of how we evaluate street safety, it is likely that most program participants will continue to have traffic laws and police involved in traffic law enforcement. In reviewing our program, we are looking at how the League can contribute to policy and cultural changes that reduces the potential for police violence and discriminatory enforcement.

While we work on program updates, we invite participants to consider these resources on ending enforcement or making it more equitable:

Read how other national organizations are making similar changes: