3/3/04-An assembly bill would require heavy-duty diesel trucks domiciled in the state to be inspected semi-annually for safety.
A1434, sponsored by Assemblymen Wilfredo Caraballo, D-Newark, and Anthony Impreveduto, D-Secaucus, would expand the role of the state’s 148 Class I diesel emission inspection centers to give their operators a choice of also providing these safety inspections.
Heavy-duty diesel trucks are now defined by statute as those with a gross vehicle weight rating of 18,000 or more pounds designed or used for the transporting of property on public roads or quasi-public property.
As is the case with emissions testing, the provisions of this bill would exclude those vehicles owned and operated by a county, municipality, fire district, or duly incorporated nonprofit organization and used for first aid, emergency, ambulance, rescue or firefighting purposes. Trucks owned or leased by firms with outstanding safety records would be exempt from these inspections.
Similar to fines derived from emissions testing, fines from safety testing will be deposited in the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Fund account to help offset the cost of administering the program.
This bill is part of a two-bill package designed to encourage truck safety. The companion bill – A1433– creates strict liability and criminal and civil sanctions for owners of these trucks involved in certain fatal crashes.
For bill status, call (609) 292-4840. In New Jersey, call 1-800-792-8630.