No joke: Feds are banning humorous electronic messages on highways
Humorous and quirky messages on electronic signs will soon disappear from highways and freeways across the country.
Federal Highway Administration bans humorous electronic messages
The U.S. Federal Highway Administration has released a new 1,100-page manual outlining regulations for signs and traffic control devices. As part of these changes, the agency is banning humorous and quirky messages on electronic signs. States have been given two years to implement these changes, which will take effect in 2026.
According to administration officials, the ban is necessary because these messages can be misunderstood or distracting to drivers. They argue that signs should be simple, direct, brief, legible, and clear, and should only be used for important information such as warnings of crashes, adverse weather conditions, and traffic delays. Seatbelt reminders and warnings about speeding or impaired driving are still allowed.
Examples of disappearing messages
Several examples of the types of messages that will be disappearing include: "Use Yah Blinkah" in Massachusetts, "Visiting in-laws? Slow down, get there late" from Ohio, "Don’t drive Star Spangled Hammered" from Pennsylvania, "Hocus pocus, drive with focus" from New Jersey, and "Hands on the wheel, not your meal" from Arizona.
Arizona, which has over 300 electronic signs, has been known for its humorous messages. For the past seven years, the state Department of Transportation has held a contest to find the funniest and most creative submissions. Despite the popularity of these messages among residents, the federal ban will put an end to them.
Resistance to the ban
State Rep. David Cook, a Republican from Globe, expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government's intervention. He questioned why the government is trying to dictate what states can do within their own borders. Cook argued that the federal government should focus on more pressing matters.
However, the Federal Highway Administration maintains that the ban is necessary to prioritize driver safety. They believe that clear and concise messages are crucial for conveying important information on the road and reducing distractions.
