|
For Immediate
Release
1/30/08
Contact:
Stacey Connors
(717) 787-1349
Committee Approves Sen.
Browne's "Anti-Idling" Legislation
Parked Trucks Would Be
Limited to Five Minutes Per Hour
The Senate Transportation Committee Tuesday (January 29)
approved legislation introduced by Senator Pat Browne
intended to reduce the noise and noxious exhaust fumes of
idling tractor trailers.
Senate Bill 295 would bar commercial diesel vehicles from
idling for more than five minutes during any 60-minute
period.
"Diesel powered motor vehicles are major emitters of
particulate matter and nitric oxide, which are substantial
parts of ground ozone. This is a health concern in many
parts of the state. With the new restrictions imposed in
this bill, the time these vehicles can idle will be
limited. We can help improve the air quality of the state,"
Senator Browne said.
The legislation, as amended by Transportation Committee
Chairman Roger Madigan, provides a specific series of
exceptions to the five-minute limit including:
- Traffic
- Operation of basic equipment to prevent an unsafe
situation or when operation is necessary to prevent a health
emergency
- Maintenance or inspection
- Armored vehicles loading or unloading
- Mechanical problems requiring extended idling-provided
proof is submitted
- Passenger buses may idle for 15 minutes in 60 for
passenger comfort
- Compliance with driver rest periods where no alternative
power source exists and when the outside temperature is less
than 40 degrees or more than 75 degrees Fahrenheit – This
exemption expires May 1, 2010
- The diesel motor is 2007 or newer and has a CARB
(California Air Resources Board) certification
Any person who violates the provisions of SB 295 could
face fines ranging from $50 to $150. Senator Browne said the
restriction on idling would help Pennsylvania's environment,
while helping reduce Pennsylvania's energy dependence.
"Idling motor vehicles needlessly waste hundreds of
millions of gallons of diesel fuel," Senator Browne said.
"By enacting this restriction, we will save fossil fuels and
make Pennsylvania less energy dependent. This legislation
meets many of our goals for the environment and energy
independence that we have set in the Senate."
 Print this page
E-mail
this page
Back |
