By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would require every city and town that receives transportation funds from the state, to conduct a study to expand the number of bicycle routes on public roadways within the city or town. Reports from each city and town’s study would be due in six months.

Supporters say that additional bike lanes would help reduce car traffic congestion, make the environment cleaner and help people get more exercise.

Rep. Dan Hunt (D-Dorchester), the sponsor of the bill, did respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call to comment on his proposal.