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 each year.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Secretary of Agriculture to prepare a report within 18 months of its enactment, assessing the safety risks associated with passing farm equipment and proposing potential remedies, including signage and increased penalties for violations. The bill also amends existing law to incorporate the safe sharing of roadways with farm equipment into driver education curriculum guidelines and informational brochures for parents of new drivers, ensuring that these critical safety topics are addressed in driver education programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:5F-41