Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1403

Introduced
1/20/25  
Refer
1/20/25  

Caption

Fire department vehicles, certain; authorize to display blue lights if certain conditions are met.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1403 would modify existing regulations on vehicle markings, specifically in the context of emergency response. By permitting the use of blue lights under defined conditions, the bill is intended to improve recognition of fire department vehicles in emergency situations, potentially reducing the risk of accidents involving these vehicles. This could lead to more efficient emergency response times and better overall traffic safety during fire department operations.

Summary

House Bill 1403 proposes amendments to the Mississippi Code that would allow certain government-owned fire department vehicles to display blue lights in addition to the usual red and white lights during emergency calls, provided specific conditions are met. This change aims to enhance visibility for fire department vehicles and improve safety on the roads when they are responding to emergencies. The bill outlines strict criteria for the use of blue lights, which includes that such vehicles must weigh over 24,000 pounds and have permission from the fire chief.

Contention

The provisions in HB 1403 are not without contention. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the added complexity of having multiple colors of lights on emergency vehicles, complicating the established norms for motorists. There is also a potential debate regarding the resource allocation and operational guidelines that would come with the implementation of these changes. Discussions are likely to center around ensuring that the public is adequately educated on the meaning of the blue lights, so they do not misinterpret their significance during emergency situations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1690

Fire trucks; require to be marked with blue lights in addition to red and white lights.

MS HB109

"Mason Wilbanks Emergency Personnel Observation Memorial Law"; designate provision requiring right-of-way observance for emergency vehicles as.

MS SB2539

All-terrain vehicles and recreational off-highway vehicles; allow tagging for operation on certain roads.

MS SB2660

All-terrain vehicles and recreational off-highway vehicles; allow tagging for operation on certain roads.

MS HB1474

Vehicles transporting certain agricultural products or timber; clarify maximum length cannot exceed requirements for day time operation.

MS HB837

Utility type vehicles and side-by-sides; authorize operation of on public nonstriped and gravel roads.

MS SB2002

Recreational off-highway vehicles; authorize operation on county roads subject to registration and other requirements.

MS SB2570

Recreational off highway vehicles; authorize operation on county roads subject to registration and other requirements.

MS HB646

Utility-type vehicles and side-by-side; authorize operation of on public county and municipal roads and streets.

MS HB836

Utility-type vehicles and side-by-sides; authorize operation of on public county and municipal roads and streets.

Similar Bills

MS SB2009

Highways; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in the state highway system.

MS SB2012

State highway system; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in.

MS SB2003

Highways; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in the state highway system.

MS SB2154

Highways; include Old State Highways 6 and 9 in Pontotoc County in the state highway system.

MS SB2493

State highway system; revise designation for Mississippi Highway 615 in Harrison County.

MS HB1008

Highways; revise Mississippi Highway 615 in Harrison County.

MS SB2715

Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science; relocate to the campus of Mississippi State University.

MS HB1131

2024 Local Improvements Project Fund; clarify and correct names and purposes of certain.