By TIM ALEXANDER
Illinois Correspondent

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock announced last week his sponsorship of HR-843, a bill the Peoria, Ill., Republican said would standardize lights and markings on new farm equipment manufactured for use on public roads.

“Safety was the number-one reason I introduced this legislation,” Schock stated, citing data showing that 55 percent of all traffic fatalities occur on rural, two-lane roads where agricultural equipment is moved from field to field – often during the dim hours of dawn and dusk.

“The idea of setting one universal standard is something that was brought up to me by both the Farm Bureau and manufacturers. Their concerns for the safety of farmers and those who are driving on rural highways was also their primary concern,” he said. “Proper lighting and marking can enhance visibility and increase the safety of transportation on these roads.”

The standardization process would be carried out by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in coordination with the American Society of Agriculture and Biological Engineers (ASABE).

“Just like with other standards set for cars or other vehicles, for example, the Department of Transportation will coordinate the process. My legislation simply directs them to begin the process. In addition, DOT has the expertise to work with all the parties involved to ensure this is handled appropriately,” Schock indicated.

Under terms of the bill, the DOT secretary – fellow Peorian Ray LaHood – would be tasked with designing the new safety standards.

“My legislation directs the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate a rule to improve the daytime and nighttime visibility of agricultural equipment that may be operated on a public road. These standards would be set no later than two years after the enactment of this legislation by the (ASABE),” Schock explained.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the bill, at least to farmers, farm organizations, ag equipment manufacturers and dealerships, is that standardization rules should not affect the prices paid for new equipment. Additionally, no upgrades would be required for older equipment.
“Once the new standards are set, this would only apply to new equipment. Since this isn’t retroactive, there won’t be any costs to the farmers and won’t impact existing equipment,” Schock said. “It was important to make sure we didn’t pass along any unintended costs to farmers.”

The legislation has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for further consideration.

“We are just in the first weeks of this new Congress, but I am hopeful since there is bipartisan support for these standards and no one has raised any red flags, that my bill will be voted on in the House and will move to the Senate for consideration as well,” Schock said.

“The Illinois Farm Bureau has been among those who have voiced their support for my legislation to ensure safety concerns continue to be addressed, and I have received bipartisan support from my House colleagues as well.”