The Governor's Highway Safety Representative in your state must sign the
official application before it can be sent to Washington DC for approval.
Once approved, the money will be dispersed from DC back to your Governor's
Highway Safety Representative.  It's then up the state to determine how
the money is best spent and, if appropriate, to turn some of it over to a
non-profit or not-for-profit organization in that state.

Last year 44 states received grants of at least $100 thousand each,
totaling almost $6 million in grant money across the country, with no
matching funds required.  This marks the first time in history that the
federal government has made funds available specifically for motorcycle
rider education and awareness campaigns.  According to the law any State
that qualifies will receive at least $100 thousand. This is largely, if
not entirely, the result of years of lobbying by the MRF and the SMROs.

In order to be eligible for the funds, states must meet one of six
criteria the first year and two criteria the second and subsequent years.
The six criteria are as follows:

1. The state must have a motorcycle rider training program.

2. The state must have a motorcycle awareness program.

3. The state must have a reduction in fatalities involving motorcycles.

4. The state must have an effective impaired driving program.

5. The state must have a reduction in fatalities and accidents involving
impaired motorcyclists.

6. Use of fees collected by the state from motorcyclists for motorcycle
programs must be used for motorcycle programs.

Many states had a large amount of success with this program this year. The
MRF encourages you to stay in contact your state officials overseeing the
administration of this important grant program in order to ensure the best
use of these limited funds.  Naturally, if you have any questions
regarding the grant program or the application process, you can call the
MRF office and we'll be happy to help guide you.