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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2008

Governor Signs Sen. Browne's "Anti-Idling" Legislation

Parked trucks now limited to five minutes per hour

Pennsylvania can now breathe easier. Legislation introduced by Senator Pat Browne (R-16) reducing the noise and noxious exhaust fumes of idling tractor trailers was signed into law by Governor Ed Rendell on Thursday (October 9).

Senate Bill 295, which was signed into law as Act 124 of 2008, bars commercial diesel vehicles from idling for more than five minutes during any 60-minute period.

"I truly appreciate the support of my colleagues and the Governor in enacting this legislation to improve air quality across the Commonwealth and especially for 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. "With the enactment of this restriction, we will save fossil fuel and make Pennsylvania less energy dependent. In many 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