RICHMOND, VA — Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent announced that HB646 has been signed into law, allowing the use of green lights on agricultural equipment operating on Virginia roadways. July 1st marks the date that numerous laws go into effect in the Commonwealth.
The legislation was inspired by conversations with local farmers and law enforcement, noting that Virginia law did not permit the use of green lights on certain agricultural equipment operating on public highways. Recognizing this gap in the Code, Delegate Kent introduced HB646 to modernize the law and allow farmers to utilize a widely recognized safety feature already permitted in many other states.
Sheriff Scott Moser of Caroline alongside Robby Caruthers of New Market Farm initiated the legislation which would support farmers and law enforcement to keep our roads safer. It was through their attention to detail and efforts that this important bill is now a law. “I am grateful to Sheriff Moser and Mr. Caruthers who brought this issue to my attention,” Kent said. “This bill exemplifies how practical, common‑sense legislation can make government work better for the people it serves while supporting one of Virginia’s most vital industries.”
Green lights are widely recognized as a way to identify agricultural equipment and alert motorists to slow-moving vehicles ahead.
“Farmers spend countless hours on our roads moving equipment between fields, often during low-light conditions,” said Kent. “This bill improves visibility and safety while eliminating an unnecessary burden on Virginia’s agricultural community.” HB646 will take effect today, July 1st.
