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HD 300 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act establishing time limits for idling trains

HD 300 establishes a 30-minute limit on idling for locomotive train engines. It directly affects train operators and rail companies by requiring them to stop engines after 30 minutes of idling. The bill mandates the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to investigate reported violations, conduct emission tests for specific pollutants (CO2, NOx, CO, SO2), and impose fines of at least $5,000 per violation if emissions exceed standards set for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) trains. This policy change enforces concrete emission controls on train idling through investigation and financial penalties.
Issues: ✓ EnergySupports EnergyBill reduces train idling emissions (CO2, NOx), lowering fossil fuel consumption and supporting cleaner energy practices through DEP enforcement of emission standards.85% confidence ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentReduces train idling emissions via 30-minute limit, mandates DEP enforcement of emission standards (CO2, NOx, etc.), and imposes fines for violations.95% confidence ✗ TransportationOpposes TransportationBill restricts train idling time (30-minute limit), directly limiting transportation operations to reduce emissions, aligning with 'restrict' indicator for oppose stance.95% confidence
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1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of John Barrett
John Barrett
DDemocratic
MA
1st Berkshire
Co
Photo of Colleen Garry
Colleen Garry
DDemocratic
MA
36th Middlesex