Panel approves allowing blue flashing lights on stationary roadside-assistance vehicles
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Summary
The committee reported House Bill 1830 as amended to allow certain emergency roadside service vehicles to use flashing or revolving blue lights while stationary assisting disabled vehicles, with limits on use and a $50 fine for misuse; the amendment clarified definitions at the state police's request.
Chairman Nielsen brought House Bill 1830 before the committee, and staffer Jess summarized it as a safety measure to let roadside-assistance vehicles operate flashing or revolving blue lights while attending to disabled vehicles. "Blue lights do not grant any special privileges and are meant to make a vehicle more noticeable on the road," Jess said, and the bill restricts blue-light use to stationary assistance near the disabled vehicle and enumerates permitted activities.
Amendment A02688, requested by the state police and accepted by the prime sponsor and AAA, clarifies the definition of "emergency roadside service vehicle" and makes technical corrections. The committee adopted the amendment by voice vote. Rep. Robert Freeman, the prime sponsor, told the panel the change will increase visibility for roadside workers and save lives, thanking state police and AAA for negotiating acceptable language.
The chair called the question and, with no negative votes recorded during the roll call, reported HB 1830 as amended from committee. The transcript records no roll-call tally.
