BISMARCK, N.D. – North Dakota’s House has unanimously approved a bill that makes it legal to leave a vehicle idling while no one is in it.
Representatives endorsed the measure, 92-0 on Tuesday. It now moves to the North Dakota Senate for additional review.
North Dakotans routinely warm up their vehicles in the winter without being in them, ignoring a potential $1,500 state fine and 30 days in jail.
North Dakota’s law was put on the books nearly 75 years ago as a deterrent against automobile theft. Several states in recent years have enacted anti-idling laws in an effort to improve air quality.
Supporters say the North Dakota’s current law ignores the will of the people.
