Coalition calls for limits on idling

Thursday, February 11, 2010

From a news release issued by the Wisconsin Clean Diesel Coalition:

Madison, WI—17 members of the Wisconsin Clean Diesel Coalition today called on the State Senate Clean Energy Committee to strengthen the Clean Energy Jobs Act (SB 450, AB 649) to reduce unnecessary commercial vehicle idling. The groups supported stronger language after a yearlong discussion with local and state officials following a proposed Dane County idling ban.

“This stronger statewide commercial unnecessary idling ban will create jobs and reduce fuel costs, while protecting the safety of truck drivers and emergency equipment operators,” said Dane County Supervisor Brett Hulsey, who proposed the Dane County ordinance and negotiated the statewide language with a broad range of stakeholders.

The letter was signed by a diverse group from all over the state including the Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association, Wisconsin Motor Carriers, Associated General Contractors of Wisconsin, Dane County, American Lung Association in WI, Inland Power Group, Associated Builders & Contractors of Wisconsin, Brooks Tractor Inc., Wisconsin Grocers Association, Antigo Construction, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Assn., Inc., Capitol Underground Inc., WI Engine Manufacturers and Distributors Alliance, Transport Refrigeration Inc., Miller-Bradford & Risberg, Inc., Leonardo Academy, and Wisconsin Kenworth Madison.

Their proposal is stronger than the current bill and Global Warming Taskforce language by:
1. Covering commercial gasoline and diesel engines, both large sources of emissions;
2. Covering commercial on-road and off-road vehicles, both large sources;
3. Having fair exemptions to protect the health and safety of drivers and operators; and
4. Was created by the industries that will be impacted, ensuring higher compliance.