Association opposes N.J. truck-idling bill

Association opposes N.J. truck-idling bill A proposed law in New Jersey aimed at reducing truck idling by fining state marine terminals for having long lines of trucks is unnecessary, said the New York Shipping Association, which represents terminal operators and other employers of longshoremen in the Port of New York and New Jersey.
   Identical bills S2217 and A2646 have been introduced by Sen. Bernard Kenny and Assemblymen John Wisniewski, and Vincent Prieto, respectively.
   The bills would fine marine terminals if heavy-duty diesel trucks are kept idling or queuing for more than 30 minutes while waiting to enter state marine terminals. The proposed law provides that the marine terminal operator is subject to a fine of $250 for each heavy-duty diesel truck found in violation of the idling or queuing prohibition. It would also make terminals subject to a fine of $750 for each truck involved in a violation of avoiding compliance with, or circumventing, the act” including turning away trucks and sending them back onto highways.
   The proposed bills would exempt terminals if they provide two continuous hours of uninterrupted, fully staffed receiving and delivery gates two hours prior to and after peak commuter hours each day, or fully staffed receiving and delivery gates for 70 or more hours, five days per week.
   “NYSA and its members have taken a number of steps to reduce emissions related to port activities, reducing emissions more than 30 percent in only five years,” said Beverly H. Fedorko, the group’s director of external affairs. “We continue to support actions that will produce real results — from electric cranes and extended gate hours to more efficient gate systems and electrified truck parks. We also have a no-idling zone program in place on our terminals, and you will find signage to that effect throughout the port.
   “So while we support continued efforts to improve air quality, we do not believe that additional legislation or regulation is necessary,” she added.