In August 2008, a new state law required all school districts to instruct bus drivers to turn off all engines while parked on, or adjacent to, school grounds. Mr. Tannini, Webutuck’s Transportation Supervisor, told The Chronicle that all bus drivers were informed of this regulation this school year.

The law takes aim at various health and environmental associated concerns. In fact, all school vehicles may not to idle for longer than five minutes because of fume emission.

A letter to all district superintendents from Marion Edick, State Director Pupil Transportation Services, refers to chapter 670 of the laws of 2007 in acted section 3637 of education law. Section 3637 applies both to loading and off loading passengers. It does, however, provide for exceptions when necessary for heating, mechanical, or emergency circumstances, or to operate devices to assist those with disabilities.

Mr. Tannini added that winter idling may occur because another law requires the bus temperature to be at least 50 degrees.

The new regulations apply to all vehicles owned or leased by the district. Any official vehicle parked or standing on school grounds, in front of the school, or adjacent to the school are affected by this law.

School bus drivers must instruct pupils on the necessity to board the bus promptly to reduce loading time, and should park the school bus diagonally in loading areas. Buses must be turned off during sporting or other events.

Schools are taking various measures to ensure compliance. For example, Rhinebeck High School has sandwich board signs warning drivers against idling their vehicles.

The law is designed as a health measure to reduce exhaust inhalation outdoors, inside vehicles, and inside school buildings.

Click on "Related Links" to go to Marion Edick's letter, or copy and paste the following URL in your browser:

www.regents.nysed.gov/2008Meetings/June2008/0608emsca1.htm