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Michigan bill would limit idling
The end of the legislative session in Michigan is fast approaching. One bill that still could get consideration from lawmakers is intended to crack down on unnecessary idling of trucks.
OOIDA says there are concerns that need to be addressed.
A Michigan Senate bill would prohibit commercial vehicles from idling for more than 5 minutes per hour. While loading or unloading, idling would be allowed for up to 30 minutes in a 60-minute period.
Exemptions would include situations when vehicles are stuck in traffic; required by law enforcement to stop; or “operating a defroster, heater, or air conditioner, or during installation of equipment, solely to prevent a safety or health emergency.â€
Idling would also be permitted to power work-related mechanical or electrical operations, such as mixing or processing cargo or straight truck refrigeration.
Sen. Ray Basham, D-Taylor, the bill’s sponsor, didn’t include an exemption for extreme temperatures. The bill does, however, specify that auxiliary power units, gen sets or other idle-reduction technology is allowed.
Violators would get off with a warning the first time. Subsequent offenses for owners or operators of locations that a truck is loading or unloading for longer than 30 minutes would result in $500 fines. Truck owners or operators found in violation of the five-minute rule would face $150 fines.
OOIDA Executive Vice President Todd Spencer said there needs to be an industry-wide solution to appropriately address idling concerns.
“This is a challenge that requires involvement and cooperation from all responsible parties,†Spencer said.
The bill – SB1069 – remains in the Senate Transportation Committee. It must advance through both chambers of the statehouse before the session ends in December.
To view other legislative activities of interest for Michigan, click here
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