This bill mandates the New Jersey 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 risks associated with 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 each year.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to prepare a report within 18 months of its enactment, assessing the safety risks of passing farm equipment and proposing potential remedies, including signage and increased penalties for violations. The bill also amends existing laws to incorporate safe practices for sharing the roadway with farm equipment into driver education curriculum guidelines and informational brochures for parents of new drivers. This aims to enhance awareness and safety for all road users, particularly in relation to farm equipment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:5F-41