TRENTON, N.J. -- New Jerseys top environmental official says enforcement is being initiated for the states tougher anti-idling requirements. (See July 15 Bus & Motorcoach News.)

State Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa Jackson said that under the new rules, which went into effect in June, diesel-powered motor vehicles can no longer idle for 30 minutes at their place of business at the beginning of the day, nor can they idle for 15 minutes following a three-hour engine shutdown, except when the temperature is below 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Buses actively discharging or picking up passengers may idle for 15 consecutive minutes in a 60-minute period.

There are, of course, other exceptions, like when maintenance is being performed on a bus or truck and operating the engine "is essential to the proper repair or service." Or, when there is traffic congestion, and when a vehicle is being inspected or waiting to the examined by a state of federal motor vehicle inspector.

The new rules even cover individuals who allow or permit the operation of diesel vehicles that emit exhaust emissions that exceed state smoke opacity standards, have malfunctioning emissions control systems, or have emissions control equipment that has been disconnected or deactivated.

The rules require New Jersey roadside inspectors to perform snap acceleration smoke opacity tests or rolling acceleration smoke opacity test as part of their examinations.

Additionally, individuals who test a diesel bus "as part of the periodic inspection program" or test a diesel-powered vehicle as part of a self-inspection program must perform either a snap or rolling acceleration smoke opacity test or stall smoke opacity test.

The rule spells out the peak smoke opacity levels for buses and trucks, ranging from 2007 to 1973 and older models.

Violators of the rules are subject to a penalty of $200 for a first violation up to $3,000 for fourth and subsequent violations.