Texas House Bill HB3317

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/11/09

Caption

Relating to the idling of motor vehicles.

Impact

The impact of HB3317 extends to environmental regulations within the state, steering towards stricter controls on vehicle emissions. By allowing certification for idle reduction systems and setting standards for new vehicles, the bill encourages upgrades to cleaner technologies in heavy-duty diesel engines. Furthermore, it seeks to maintain vehicle functionality and operational flexibility by exempting certified vehicles from certain idling restrictions, potentially resulting in a dual benefit of reduced emissions and maintained operational efficiency for commercial vehicles.

Summary

House Bill 3317 amends existing regulations regarding the idling of motor vehicles, particularly targeting heavy-duty diesel engines. The bill introduces optional nitrogen oxide idling emission standards for vehicles manufactured from 2008 onwards. It empowers the commission to establish a certification process for diesel engines that comply with the new standards, including provisions for visual certification verification. This legislative measure is aimed at reducing harmful emissions from idling engines while promoting cleaner technologies in the transportation sector.

Contention

Although the bill primarily aims at reducing emissions, some points of contention may arise concerning the implementation of these new standards. Stakeholders may discuss the potential costs associated with retrofitting diesel engines to meet certification, as well as the additional regulatory oversight necessary for compliance. Moreover, the balance between environmental goals and maintaining the operational capacity of commercial transport might lead to debates regarding effectiveness and feasibility in the industry.