Attention: Wisconsin truckers! An effort in the Wisconsin Legislature is intended to reduce unnecessary idling of large trucks, but what it leaves out warrants a call to your state lawmakers.

The idling provision is part of Gov. Jim Doyle’s Clean Energy Jobs Act. Idling would be restricted to no more than five minutes per hour. Fines for operators start at $20 and escalate to as much as $1,000, based on how many times offenders are found in violation.

Unlimited idling would be allowed when temperatures are colder than 10 degrees, or hotter than 90 degrees.

Certain trucks would be completely exempt from the proposed idling restrictions. Affected trucks must comply with federal emissions standards for engine model year 2007 or newer.

Other exceptions to the restriction would include situations when it is necessary to power equipment needed for loading or unloading, when vehicles are stuck in traffic, or when the medical needs of the operator of a passenger require equipment that is powered from the truck’s primary propulsion engine. In addition, the idling prohibition would not apply when idling of trucks is necessary for service or repair.

However, there is no exception included for situations when idling is necessary to operate defrosters, heaters or air conditioners to ensure the health or safety of occupants. This provision is too important to overlook.

Contact your state Representative and Senator and urge them to include in the proposed idling rule exceptions for drivers’ health or safety. The proposed rule is included in the governor’s Clean Energy Jobs Act, which is made up of two identical bills – SB450 and AB649. They are awaiting consideration in committee.