For Immediate Release
10/8/08

Sen. Browne's "Anti-idling" Legislation Heads to Governor

Parked trucks would be limited to five minutes per hour

Legislation introduced by Senator Pat Browne (R-16) that will reduce the noise and noxious exhaust fumes of idling tractor trailers received final legislative approval today and is headed to Governor Ed Rendell for his signature and enactment into law.

Senate Bill 295 will bar commercial diesel vehicles from idling for more than five minutes during any 60-minute period.

"I truly appreciate the support of my colleagues in approving this legislation that will improve air quality across the Commonwealth and especially for those residents who live around truck terminals and parking areas. Idling motor vehicles needlessly waste hundreds of millions of gallons of diesel fuel," Senator Browne said. "By enacting this restriction, we will save fossil fuel and make Pennsylvania less energy dependent. In a lot of regards, this legislation meets our goals for the environment and energy independence that we have set in the Senate."

Any person who violates the provisions of SB 295 could face fines ranging from $150 to $300. Senator Browne said the restriction on idling would help Pennsylvania's environment, while helping reduce Pennsylvania's energy dependence.

Farm vehicles and motor homes are specifically excluded from the provisions of the legislation.  There are also certain exemptions included in the legislation for buses, school buses and emergency vehicles.


Contact:

Lesley Crozier
(717) 787-1349

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