6/17/08-The Senate unanimously approved a bill that would require drivers to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed before passing emergency vehicles, tow trucks or highway maintenance vehicles parked by the road with their lights flashing. It now moves to the Assembly.
Sponsored by Sen. Anthony Bucco, R-Denville, S180 would require drivers to merge into a lane further away from emergency vehicles, tow trucks or highway maintenance vehicles, if practical. On two-lane highways, drivers would be required to reduce speed before passing.
Failure to obey the rule would result in up to $500 fines.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee in the Assembly.
For bill status, call (609) 292-4840. In New Jersey, call 1-800-792-8630.

5/9/08-The Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs Committee approved a bill that is designed to protect emergency personnel during roadside stops and certain other vehicles.
Sponsored by Sen. Anthony Bucco, R-Denville, S180 would require drivers to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed before passing emergency vehicles, tow trucks or highway maintenance vehicles parked by the road with their lights flashing.
Dubbed the “Move Over Act,” the bill would require drivers to merge into a lane further away from emergency vehicles, tow trucks or highway maintenance vehicles, if practical. On two-lane highways, drivers would be required to reduce speed before passing.
Failure to obey the rule would result in up to $500 fines.
The bill now awaits initial consideration on the Senate floor.
For bill status, call (609) 292-4840. In New Jersey, call 1-800-792-8630.
An identical Assembly bill – A1179 – is awaiting initial consideration on the Assembly floor.

2/4/08-A bill in the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs Committee is designed to protect emergency personnel during roadside stops and certain other vehicles.
Sponsored by Sen. Anthony Bucco, R-Denville, S180 would require drivers to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed before passing emergency vehicles, tow trucks or highway maintenance vehicles parked by the road with their lights flashing.
Dubbed the “Move Over Act,” the bill would require drivers to merge into a lane further away from emergency vehicles, tow trucks or highway maintenance vehicles, if practical. On two-lane highways, drivers would be required to reduce speed before passing.
Failure to obey the rule would result in up to $500 fines.
For bill status, call (609) 292-4840. In New Jersey, call 1-800-792-8630.
An identical Assembly bill – A1179 – is in the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee.