Boswell Joins Rep. Aaron Schock in Introducing Bill to Improve Rural Roadway Safety, Protect Farmers

Press Release

Congressman Leonard Boswell joined Congressmen Aaron Schock (R-IL, sponsor) and Sam Graves (R-MO, co-sponsor) this week to introduce the Agricultural Machinery Illumination Safety Act, H.R. 843. This legislation would improve the safety of rural roadways by specifically directing the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate a rule to improve the daytime and nighttime visibility of agricultural equipment that may be operated on a public road.

"As a farmer myself, I understand firsthand the dangers of dark roads, heavy farm equipment, and harvest time," Congressman Boswell said. "This legislation will improve the safety not only of farmers, but also of motorists, who travel the roads of rural America. I was pleased to work with Reps. Schock and Graves on this important legislation."

Currently, there are no federal standards for such requirements, and state laws that apply can vary widely, often representing outdated technology which can lead to increased safety concerns. H.R. 843 would put an end to inconsistent regulations that make it more confusing and less safe when driving on rural highways. The Agricultural Machinery Illumination Safety Act will codify minimum lighting and marking standards for farm equipment. These standards would be set no later than two years after the enactment of this legislation by the American Society of Agriculture and Biological Engineers. Additionally, the legislation will grant the Secretary of Transportation the authority to improve these minimum standards as technology improves.

"My legislation will improve the safety of our rural roads by ensuring the lights and markings on new machinery is standardized and has been scientifically proven as effective in warning other drivers," said Schock. "Fifty-five percent of all traffic fatalities occur on rural 2-lane roads where agricultural equipment is moved from field to field during the dimly-lit periods of dawn and dusk, and proper lighting and marking can enhance visibility and increase the safety of transportation on these roads."

"This is a move toward increasing safety for both drivers and farmers," said Congressman Graves. "It will provide guidance to equipment manufacturers and comes at no cost to farmers."

The Agricultural Machinery Illumination Safety Act has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for further consideration.

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