1/4/08-H866 remained in committee when the 2007 session closed. It can be brought back for consideration during the session that started Jan. 2.

6/18/07-A bill in the Joint Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee would alter the state's rules on truck idling.
Sponsored by Rep. Frank Smizik, D-Brookline, H866 would hold owners and operators of vehicles liable for idling violations.
Massachusetts law now limits vehicle idling to no longer than five minutes in any 60-minute period. First-time offenders face minimum $100 fines. Subsequent offenses could result in up to $500 fines.
The bill would add exceptions to state law for situations when vehicles are stuck in traffic, required by law enforcement to stop or when idling is necessary to operate defrosters, heaters, air conditioners, or installing other equipment "solely to prevent a safety or health emergency."
Drivers idling their trucks while sleeping or resting also would be exempt from the rule.
In addition, the idling prohibition would not apply when idling of trucks "is necessary to power work-related mechanical or electrical operations other than propulsion." Examples cited in the bill are "mixing or processing cargo or straight truck refrigeration."
The bill also clarifies that operating auxiliary power units is not included in the restriction.
For House bill status, call (617) 722-2356.