GRAIN VALLEY, Mo. — The Owner-Operator Independent Driver’s Association (OOIDA) is throwing its support behind a U.S. bill that would provide tax credits on the purchase of anti-idling devices that reduce pollution and save fuel.

The Idling Reduction Tax Credit Act of 2006 has been introduced south of the border by Rep. Kay Granger. The proposal would allow a 25 per cent tax credit up to $1,000 for the purchase of anti-idling devices. Here in Canada, FleetSmart already offers rebates on the purchase of approved anti-idling devices such as auxiliary power units.

According to U.S. Department of Energy statistics, the typical long-haul driver idles his or her truck 1,830 hours per year.

“Truckers idle their engines for many reasons related to security, comfort and equipment needs,” said Todd Spencer, OOIDA executive vice-president. “It is integral for the health and well-being of truckers, and the driving public, that the Congress address anti-idling laws in a manner that encourages and promotes the use of anti-idling technologies.”

OOIDA says anti-idling devices are often unaffordable to small fleets or owner/operators, but the proposed tax credit will help.

“This legislation will assist small-business truckers in helping them to recoup some of the cost to outfit their trucks with new technologies,” Spencer said.