Tom Workman

Representative Tom Workman: A Lifetime of Public Service and Advocacy for Motorcyclists

Representative Tom Workman has dedicated his career to public service, transportation policy, and the advancement of motorcycle safety and rider rights. A graduate of St. Cloud State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Workman began his career in government as a legislative staff member for former U.S. Representative Arlan Stangeland before serving on the Chanhassen City Council from 1989 to 1992.

In 1992, Workman was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, where he quickly became a respected voice on transportation issues and a leading advocate for the motorcycling community. During his decade of legislative service, he held leadership roles on numerous committees involving transportation, commerce, taxation, housing, energy, environmental policy, and economic development. His most notable leadership position was serving as Chair of the House Transportation Policy Committee.

Workman’s legislative accomplishments significantly advanced motorcycle safety and rider protections in Minnesota. He championed measures that strengthened penalties for right-of-way violations resulting in injury or death, repealed outdated motorcycle handlebar restrictions, authorized enhanced motorcycle brake-light visibility measures, protected motorcycle safety fund resources, and prohibited helmet noncompliance from being used as evidence in personal injury litigation. These efforts helped create a safer and more equitable environment for motorcyclists throughout the state.

One of the defining moments of Workman’s legislative career came during a House floor debate on motorcycle-related legislation. Demonstrating his conviction and commitment to the riding community, he broke with accepted protocol to challenge disparaging remarks directed at motorcyclists by a senior House member. The moment exemplified his willingness to stand firmly for the principles and people he represented.

Following his service in the Minnesota House, Workman continued his advocacy as Director of Government Relations and lobbyist for the American Bikers for Awareness, Training and Education of Minnesota (ABATE of Minnesota). 

In 2002, he was elected to the Carver County Board of Commissioners, where he has continued to serve with distinction. As Chair of the Board, he has remained a strong supporter of transportation safety initiatives, including repeatedly proclaiming May as Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month in Carver County.Through decades of service at the local, state, and county levels, Tom Workman has earned a reputation for principled leadership, effective advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to the communities he serves. His legacy reflects a lifelong dedication to public policy, transportation safety, individual freedoms, and the rights and well-being of motorcyclists.