The list below contains summaries of all New York incentives and laws related to Idle Reduction.
Any motor vehicle equipped with qualified idle reduction technology may exceed the state's vehicle weight limits by up to 400 pounds to compensate for the added weight of the idle reduction technology. The vehicle's operator must maintain written certification of the device's weight and proof that it is fully functional and must provide such proof to a law enforcement officer, upon request. (Reference New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 385)
Heavy-duty vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 8,500 pounds may not idle for more than five consecutive minutes when the vehicle is not in motion. Exceptions apply, including when idling is necessary due to traffic conditions; to maintain temperatures (under regulation) for passenger comfort; to provide auxiliary power or for maintenance purposes; to recharge batteries in hybrid electric vehicles; and for emergency service vehicles. (Reference New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Regulations Chapter III, Subpart 217-3)
All public school districts must ensure that every school bus or other school vehicle driver turns off the vehicle's engine while waiting for passengers to load or unload. Certain exceptions are allowed when necessary for heating, mechanical, or emergency circumstances. School districts must also provide an annual notice to school personnel, including an overview of the regulations and available education materials. For more information, see the State Education Department website. This regulation expires on June 30, 2013. (Reference New York Education Law 3637)