Jason Charnes opposes Intro 11-A for limousine and motor-coach operators
Charnes represents the National Limousine Association and a New Jersey chauffeur group. He says operators support clean air but need recognition of passenger safety, climate control, and regeneration needs, and he opposes 11-A.
On behalf of the National Limousine Association, the Chauffeur Transportation Association, New Jersey, my name is Jason Charnes.
As I mentioned, we are here in opposition of introduction of number 11.
I serve on the board of directors for both the NLA and the Chauffeur Transportation Association, New Jersey.
Let me begin by making one thing clear.
Motor coach limousine operators support New Jersey, New York City's clean air goals.
We all have a responsibility to reduce emissions and protect the environment.
However, we believe the city must distinguish between unnecessary, wasteful idling and legitimate operational needs.
We respectfully ask that motor coach and limousine industry associations also be included in developing policies and enforcement practices that balance emissions reductions with passenger safety and the practical realities of our industry.
There are several areas of concern with current enforcement initiatives, the enforcement tactics, and proposed increase in penalties.
As you've heard from others today, passenger safety is a major concern.
Many of our passengers who rely on our services are senior citizens, school-age children.
They are also the core populations that our companies serve, and they deserve safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation.
We have serious concerns about the performance.
drivers who are caught in the middle also.
They expect to balance passenger safety, compliance with idling regulations, company operating policies, vehicle maintenance requirements, the regeneration cycles that are required by modern diesel engines.
These responsibilities do not align neatly with the current way the rules are being enforced.
Our members consistently
report receiving violations when DOP enforcement officers and participants in the citizen air complaint program do not fully understand the circumstances requiring a vehicle to idle.
A vehicle may need to maintain a safe and comfortable interior temperature for its passengers, or a driver may be preparing to load and unload passengers.
These circumstances deserve to be considered before a violation is issued.
We have heard from member companies that they instruct drivers.
Your time has expired.
Thank you, Chairman, and I will submit my testimony via email as well.
Thank you so much.
I appreciate that.
Next witness, Mario Darrocha, Jr.
Duroca?
I don't know.
We begin.
Next witness is Anthony Griffith.
You may begin.