This bill mandates the Department of Agriculture to develop and disseminate informational materials regarding highway safety for motorists encountering farm equipment on public highways. In collaboration with the Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety and the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, the department will publish these materials on its website and social media, including a video that highlights the dangers of passing farm equipment. Additionally, the department is tasked with emphasizing highway safety related to farm equipment during National Farm Safety and Health Week, which occurs in the third week of September. Furthermore, the Secretary of Agriculture is required to produce a report within 18 months that assesses safety risks, proposes remedies, and estimates funding for implementation.

The bill also amends existing law to incorporate the safe sharing of roadways with farm equipment into the curriculum guidelines for driver education courses and the informational brochures provided to parents and guardians of new drivers under 18. This inclusion aims to enhance awareness and education about the importance of safely navigating roads alongside farm equipment, thereby promoting overall highway safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:5F-41