EMEAC Supports State-Level Anti-Idling Legislation
February 29, 2012
Detroit was instrumental in laying the groundwork for anti-idling policy in the state. The City of Detroit was one of only three cities in Michigan to already have local laws on the books regarding anti-idling.
The EMEAC Policy Team worked very hard to get an Anti-Idling ordinance at the city level passed in Detroit (2010) and continues to make sure that the ordinance is enforced. After being involved in discussions around these bills at the City of Detroit Anti-Idling Workgroup, the Policy Team felt supporting the statewide initiative was the next logical step. To date, twenty states have enacted similar anti-idling legislation.
“We have been working with Hopgood's staff to incorporate Detroit-specific issues and to make sure the bill is similar to our citywide ordinance.” Said Policy Coordinator, Alisha Deen-Steindler. For the most part, EMEAC’s suggested amendments and concerns were all taken into consideration and reflected in the latest draft of the bill.
What the Bill Would Do:
SB 819 & 820, introduced by Sen. Hoon-Yung Hopgood (D) on November 10, 2011, would prohibit heavy diesel trucks (over 8,500 pounds) from idling more than five minutes within a one hour period, or 15 minutes for loaded buses (or 30 minutes for ones waiting to unload), with certain exceptions for emergency, health and safety, inspection, maintenance and other necessary purposes. Drivers and truck owners are subject to fines of up to $500. The fine revenue would go to local governments. Also, SB 820 spells out how the measure could be enforced by local volunteer “parking officers”.
“Enacting a statewide idling policy will improve air quality and make for a cleaner environment by reducing emissions, will help businesses cut costs associated with wasted fuel and unnecessary engine wear and tear, and will improve government efficiency by creating a streamlined regulatory structure,” said Senator Hopgood.
