Lake Samish Association
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Compression Brake Noise

WHAT:  Compression or "jake brake" refers to engine brakes or compression release engine brakes primarily used on semi-trucks that modifies valve operation to use engine compression, instead of brakes, to slow the vehicle.  Compression brakes make a loud chattering or "machine gun" noise while being used.  Signs on the side of the I-5 freeway that will say "Engine Brakes Restricted."  


WHEN:  Governor Gregoire signed HB1002 into law effective July 7, 2005 now making it illegal to utilize compression brakes where posted on roadways in Washington State. The battle is not completely won yet, however.  Dale is continuing to communicate with the trucking industry and the Washington State Patrol to ensure the provisions of the new law will be enforced within a reasonable time frame for implementation.   

LSA ACTION:  Residents of Lake Samish, championed by board member Dale French, signed petitions and supported this legislation with phone calls, letters and e-mails as it passed through the process toward becoming law. Residents here have been subjected to noise pollution from compression brakes being utilized primarily in the southbound lanes of I-5 between mileposts 246 and 242, even though signs indicate compression brakes are prohibited. This is because there has been no law, until now, to provide policing and judicial authority to apprehend violators.


STATUS:  A meeting was held in August 2006 at the home of Dale French with State Representative Jeff Morris, Joan Ellsworth, Rita Wefer and Joe Pooley.  Dale reported that the bill the legislators passed two years ago is unenforceable the way it is written, according to the Chief of the State Patrol.  There are federal standards that apply, because I-5 is an interstate, as well as an international highway system.

Rep. Morris said that he had been in contact with the State Patrol and will be working with them to get a bill before the legislators during the January 2007 session.  Morris also plans to contact Rep Rick Larson (concerning the Federal laws) and Dept. of Transportation to change the wording and placement of the signs on I-5.

LSA CONTACT:  To be determined



* If you are interested in becoming more involved with this issue please contact a current board member.  

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