To the Honorable Members of…

To the Honorable Members of Government,

I write to you today with a deep sense of urgency and concern, imploring you to reconsider the passage of Bill 212. As someone who lives east of Toronto, outside of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), I can tell you firsthand that our communities rely heavily on bicycle paths and bike lanes to connect from town to town, especially for those of us who do not have access to a car.

For many, the bicycle is not just a leisure activity or a choice; it is a lifeline. It’s how we get to work, to school, to essential services, and to visit family and friends. It is an integral part of our daily lives, providing both mobility and independence. However, if this bill passes, I fear that the safety of those who rely on these bike lanes will be gravely compromised. The paths we currently use are already precarious in places, and this bill, in its current form, will only serve to make them more dangerous.

I implore you to consider the real-world consequences of your actions. For many people in my community, cycling is not an optional activity—it is a necessity. We are not talking about a small group of people, but rather the lives of many who are now at risk. The implications of this bill are not abstract; they are immediate and personal. I cannot, in good conscience, support a policy that puts my life and the lives of others in danger.

Please do not risk the lives of your constituents for the sake of a bill that fails to account for the realities of how people live, work, and move in this region. The impact of this decision will be felt not just on the roads, but in the very fabric of our communities. If this bill passes, I will be forced to reconsider my support for this government, and I will not hesitate to withhold my vote in future elections.

I am asking you, as a representative of the people, to listen to our concerns and protect the safety of those who depend on safe, accessible bike paths and lanes. Please do not allow this legislation to pass and endanger our lives.

Thank you for your time and consideration.