Kentucky Will Debate Troy’s Law Next Legislative Session
Proposed legislation seeks to permit green lights on tow trucks to improve safety for workers on the road.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Legislative Policy
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Supporters of Troy’s Law intend to push for the bill's passage during Kentucky's next legislative session in 2027. The proposed law aims to enhance worker visibility by allowing tow trucks to use green lights while in transit.
Why it matters
The legislation seeks to address ongoing safety concerns for tow truck drivers who often work inches from traffic moving at high speeds. Advocates hope the change will prevent future fatalities like that of Troy Caldwell, who died in Rowan County.
The legislation proposes authorizing green lights on the front and back of tow trucks, a change from an original blue-light proposal to accommodate law enforcement concerns. The House of Representatives previously approved the measure with a 93-0 vote.
The players
Troy Caldwell
He was a tow truck driver who died while assisting another vehicle on an interstate in Rowan County.
Kentucky House of Representatives
This is the lower chamber of the Kentucky General Assembly that previously approved the bill with a unanimous vote.
The details
The bill aims to protect drivers who must service vehicles alongside interstate traffic traveling at 70 miles an hour. Supporters adjusted the lighting color in the bill's language to secure broader support after initial concerns were raised by police agencies.
Timeline
September 2024 marked the second anniversary of the death of Troy Caldwell.
The House of Representatives passed the bill by a 93-0 vote in 2025.
Supporters aim to pass the legislation during the 2027 legislative session.
Political Context
Opponents or skeptics of such legislation often point to the standardized use of red and blue emergency lights for law enforcement and emergency vehicles, arguing that adding other colors could lead to driver confusion. This proposal requires navigating those existing statutes to ensure the new lighting color remains distinct.
If passed, the law would permit tow truck operators to utilize green lighting, which may change how Kentucky motorists perceive these vehicles on the shoulder of the road. Residents should be aware of potential changes to traffic safety regulations as the bill moves toward a potential vote.
The takeaway
Legislative advocacy often requires significant compromise to address the concerns of multiple stakeholders, such as the switch from blue to green lights in this proposal. Drivers should remain vigilant and move over when they see any emergency or service lighting on the side of the highway.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's upcoming legislative schedule in the Legislative Policy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wkyt.
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Should states pass new laws to increase safety equipment requirements for tow truck drivers?
