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Work‑zone lighting bill amended after debate over green vs. white lights
Summary
Contractors urged allowing green+amber lights on truck‑mounted attenuators to increase visibility; first responders and state police warned the color could cause confusion with emergency command lights. The committee amended the bills to permit white and amber lights and reported the measures.
Senator Bagby introduced bills to allow truck‑mounted attenuators and other work‑zone vehicles to use green and amber flashing lights to improve visibility in work zones. Industry witnesses and contractors argued green is scientifically more visible and noted neighboring states have adopted green for similar vehicles. "Green and amber is the most effective for drivers," one contractor told the committee.
Opposition came from first‑responder organizations and the Virginia State Police, which said green has an established association with police/command vehicles and could confuse motorists. "Green subconsciously means go," Major Ron Maxey testified, saying amber is traditionally used for warnings.
During the committee exchange members explored compromise colors. After extended debate the committee adopted an amendment changing the authorized colors from green+amber to white+amber; proponents indicated they would accept the compromise to secure passage. The bill was then reported as amended.
Outcome: The committee reported the measure with the color set to white and amber and asked counsel and agencies to coordinate guidance for implementation.
