Slow Down to Get Around legislation becomes effective in Nebraska

On April 6, the Nebraska legislature passed LB 909, which contains language that would require drivers to slow down and safely change lanes when approaching solid waste and recycling vehicles from behind. This legislation, commonly known as Slow Down to Get Around, is a priority for the National Waste and Recycling Association (NWRA), which represents America’s private waste and recycling industry.

“NWRA is committed to making our industry safer. Getting Slow Down to Get Around legislation passed in state houses around the country is a priority for us. I know our members in Nebraska worked diligently on this issue. I congratulate them on their success,” NWRA President and CEO Darrell Smith says.

NWRA member companies have been diligent in providing advanced safety training for drivers and workers who hop off the trucks to make collections. Over the past four years, NWRA member companies and its chapters nationwide have successfully championed Slow Down to Get Around legislation, which is now the law in 17 states and under consideration in several more. Nebraska Senators Curt Friesen and Burke Harr were instrumental in helping to navigate this legislation.

“Driving safely should be a top priority for anyone getting behind the wheel of a vehicle. We all want to safely get home to our families. This legislation carries an important message: Take your time and slow down around garbage trucks whose workers perform such a vital task for our environment,” Peggy Macenas, regional director of NWRA, says.

Governor Pete Ricketts signed the legislation into law on April 11. The new law became effective on April 12.