House Bill 603 (Metzgar-R-Bedford) to encourage clean energy truck transportation passed in the House Wednesday by a unanimous vote.

“Pennsylvania has a rich supply of natural gas and this legislation, House Bill 603, would further encourage trucking companies to use it as a fuel to power tractor-trailers,” said Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, the primes sponsor. “This bill would also put the Commonwealth in the forefront of the emerging natural gas-powered trucking industry.”

In 2015, the federal government enacted Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act, which raised the weight limit for natural gas-powered tractor-trailers to 82,000 pounds, up from 80,000 pounds. The change was due to the increased weight of the fuel and tanks on natural gas vehicles (NGV).

So far, eight states have increased their weight limits for NGVs. Metzgar’s bill would bring Pennsylvania in line with federal guidelines and would put the state ahead of others in the nation.

“My legislation will encourage the use of cleaner burning NGVs, allowing Pennsylvania to lead the way in promoting natural gas use in all responsible forms,” Rep. Metzgar said. “It also allows NGVs to compete with trucks powered by traditional fuels.”

The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.  A House Fiscal Note and summary is available.

NewsClip:

CNG Service In Northeast Likely To Expand

[Posted: May 25, 2017]

5/29/2017