Following the introduction of the Buses Utilizing Safety and Environmental Standards (BUSES) Act (H.R. 9317), the American Bus Association reports that it has assembled a coalition of organizations from the transportation, hospitality, and business travel sectors to support the legislation. The primary purpose of the bill is “to prohibit engine idling restrictions for over-the-road buses and school buses if an engine idles for less than 15 minutes.” Among the associations supporting the bill is the National Limousine Association (NLA).
Congressman Josh Gottheimer Announces the BUSES Act (photo courtesy of Rep. Gottheimer)
Sponsors of the bill include Reps. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.-23), Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.-5), and Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.-15). Thompson signed on after the legislation was proposed in mid-June.
At hand are the patchwork regulations across jurisdictions that prevent excessive idling of commercial vehicles. However, the associations argue that:
- Drivers often need to idle to maintain air conditioning or heat for passengers.
- Idling may be necessary to keep wheelchair lifts, safety systems, and electrical equipment functioning.
- Tour buses, charter coaches, airport shuttles, and commuter buses routinely cross jurisdictions with different rules, making compliance confusing.
- Drivers can face citations even when idling is necessary for passenger safety or comfort.
The associations sent a letter to the representatives in thanks for their support of the industry, noting their “practical and measured solution.” According to a press release from ABA, “the coalition letter highlights the important role motorcoaches play in the nation’s transportation system and economy, including connecting communities, supporting tourism and student travel, transporting military personnel, providing access to jobs and airports, serving conventions and major events, and assisting in emergency response and evacuations. It also explains why limited operational idling is sometimes necessary: motorcoaches rely on engine-powered systems to conduct safety inspections, maintain brake pressure, operate accessibility equipment, support safe passenger boarding, and provide safe cabin conditions for passengers and drivers.”
The goal of the bill would be to establish a national minimum standard that prevents the enforcement of local bus idling restrictions for periods under 15 minutes, prohibit bounty-style enforcement programs, and limit Clean Air Act citizen suit actions related to covered operational idling.
Among the signatories are:
- American Hotel & Lodging Association
- Bus Association of New York
- BUS4NYC Coalition Inc.
- The Business Council of New York State
- Greater Northeast Motorcoach Association
- National Limousine Association
- National Tour Association
- Student & Youth Travel Association
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- U.S. Travel Association
- United Motorcoach Association
- United States Tour Operators Association
The full text of the bill can be accessed here.
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