Subcommittee reports SB 437 to allow alternating green and amber warning lights in highway work zones

The Transportation Highway Safety and Policy Subcommittee voted to report Senate Bill 437 with a substitute that would authorize alternating green and amber warning lights on truck‑mounted attenuator vehicles used in Virginia highway work zones and would allow snowplows to use those lights when clearing long stretches of public highway.

Sen. Bagby, the bill’s sponsor, told the committee the substitute adds vehicles and clarifies that alternating green lights may be used in work zones to improve visibility. “The bill authorizes alternating green and amber warning lights on truck mounted attenuator vehicles in Virginia highway work zones,” he said, summarizing the substitute.

Supporters from the highway construction community told the panel the change is narrowly tailored to protect workers. Phil Abraham, representing the Old Dominion Highway Contractors, said the measure would add an “extra layer of protection for both the traveling public and the workers.” Gordon Dixon of the Virginia Transportation Construction Alliance added that peer‑reviewed studies back the use of green lights and noted neighboring states have adopted similar measures: “It’s not just a random color,” he said.

There was no recorded public opposition during the in‑room testimony. The subcommittee moved to report the substitute and, after roll call, recorded the measure as reported by a 7–0 vote.

The committee indicated the bill will proceed to the full transportation committee process for further consideration.