SUBJECT:  SCHOOL BUS IDLING (#5751)

            In accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), excessive idling of certain vehicles is illegal in New York State.  State regulations provide in part that buses exceeding 8,500 pounds and designed primarily for transporting persons or properties (i.e., a “heavy duty vehicle”) shall not idle for more than five (5) consecutive minutes when not in motion unless otherwise authorized by the regulations.  Significantly, the state regulations apply to a heavy duty vehicle whether or not powered by a diesel or non-diesel fueled engine.

Further, the five (5) consecutive minute limitation on idling applies to buses whether owned, operated or leased; or to one who owns, leases or occupies land and has the actual or apparent dominion or control over the operation of the bus present on such land.

Exceptions

            Exceptions to the five (5) consecutive minute limitation on idling of school buses will be as enumerated in state regulations and include, but are not limited to, the following:

a)         The bus is forced to remain motionless because of the traffic conditions over which the driver has no control; and

b)         Idling to maintain an interior temperature of fifty (50) degrees Fahrenheit when the outside temperature is less than fifty (50) degrees or an interior temperature of seventy (70) degrees Fahrenheit when the temperature outside is more than eighty (80) degrees.

c)         Auxiliary function such as wheelchair lifts IF the operation requires the engine to continue running.

d)         When operation of the vehicle is required for maintenance, including necessary pre-trip safety inspections.

Sanctions for Violation of District Policy

            District employed bus drivers as well as other District employees who are known to have engaged in prohibited behavior with regard to excessive idling of school buses are subject to disciplinary action pursuant to the applicable collective bargaining agreement, as well as the sanctions provided by in law and/or regulations.

            Any significant violations by vendors/contract bus companies of District policy and/or regulations regarding excessive idling of school buses shall result in revocation of their contract for the transportation of District students; and they may be subject to sanctions provided or in law and/or regulations.

            The District will monitor and enforce compliance with this policy; and any person may report incidents of noncompliance by contacting the Director of Transportation.