Bus Companies Sue NYC Over Idling Ticket Enforcement
A group of private interstate bus companies has initiated a federal lawsuit against New York City, claiming that the city’s “bounty hunter” idling ban is unfairly targeting them. This law was designed to combat air pollution but, according to the American Bus Association, it imposes penalties on private buses while exempting government vehicles like MTA buses, thereby creating unequal treatment under the law.
Since 2020, private bus operators have reportedly received over 4,000 idling violation calls, leading to substantial fines and mounting legal costs, as highlighted in their complaint.
Filed in Manhattan federal court, the lawsuit contends that the idling ban places an excessive burden on interstate commercial activities by increasing operational costs and risks in New York City. Moreover, it clashes with federal regulations that often necessitate buses to be idling for crucial systems, such as air brakes and passenger safety features, to function effectively.
The lawsuit also critiques the city’s “incentive system,” which offers 25% of proceeds from tickets to individuals who report idling violations. Some individuals could earn close to $1 million through this program.
Launched in 2019, New York City’s Citizen Idling Complaint Program even featured a promotional effort from 1980s rocker Billy Idol, who encouraged residents to report idling vehicles.
Fines for violating the idling rule can range from $350 to $2,000, with a striking 95% of reported complaints being upheld. This creates a profitable situation for the city’s civil enforcement officers who, under the program, receive a portion of the fines collected.
The ABA argues that this structure breeds a “predatory” environment focused on profit rather than genuine environmental concerns.
“Private motorcoach operators play a vital role in New York City’s economy by supporting tourism, conventions, and interstate travel,” stated Fred Ferguson, the president and CEO of the American Bus Association. “They significantly contribute to reducing congestion by removing numerous cars from the roads with each trip.”
According to the motorcoach industry, it generates over $12.7 billion in economic impact, supports approximately 59,200 jobs, and promotes annual visitor spending in the city.
A recent survey from the ABA indicated that more than 40% of respondents have reduced trips to the city or opted out of charter services due to the current idling restrictions. Many industry leaders have warned of possible further reductions in services if fines continue to escalate.
The lawsuit, which names New York City and the Environmental Protection Secretary as defendants, does not dispute the city’s clean air initiatives. Instead, it calls for fair enforcement and regulatory consistency while recognizing the essential role motor coaches play in alleviating congestion and emissions.
The ABA advocates for transport policies that promote the use of group transit to ease traffic and should not impose unfair penalties on operators who help decrease vehicle volume and emissions in New York City.
In response, a spokesperson from the City Attorney’s Office stated that the idling law was implemented to safeguard the health of New Yorkers and confirmed they would review the complaint once received.
The American Bus Association represents various bus operators, including Academy Express, Peter Pan Bus Lines, and Greyhound, among others.
