2/4/08-A bill in the Assembly Transportation, Public Works and Independent Authorities Committee would prohibit ports from making a truck wait longer than 30 minutes before beginning loading or off-loading container cargo at a terminal.
A1023 would subject terminal operators to a $250 fine for making a truck wait longer than 30 minutes, and each delayed truck would be a separate violation.
Terminals attempting to avoid requirements in the bill by diverting a truck to area roadways, alternate staging areas or forcing the truck to wait inside the gate would be subject to a $750 fine.
Sponsored by Assemblyman John Wisniewski, D-Middlesex, the bill would exempt terminals that maintain a fully staffed gate two hours before and after peak commuter hours in the morning and afternoon, at least 5 days a week.
For bill status, call (609) 292-4840. In New Jersey, call 1-800-792-8630.