D.C. jumps on snow removal bandwagon

WASHINGTON — The District of Columbia is the latest U.S. state to crack down on snow and ice on vehicle and trailer roofs.

The D.C. Council has passed legislation giving police authority to issue citations to vehicle operators who don’t clear snow or ice accumulation off their vehicles.

The "emergency law," reports the Washington Post, will be in effect for 225 days.

Officers are to use their discretion on the appropriate amount of a fine, and how much snow should be ordered removed.

Legislators are expecting some push back from the trucking industry, however. Truckers argue that they can’t easily remove snow from trailer roofs without making drivers or workers climb on top — a safety code violation in most states.

Last month, the N.J. Assembly Transportation Committee unanimously approved a bill that requires drivers to remove snow and ice before traveling on the road. Fines could be as much as $75 for each violation.