MADISON – A bill authored by Rep. Dean Kaufert [R–Neenah] and Senator Julian Bradley [R–New Berlin] to help prevent disruptions of funeral processions passed the State Assembly with bipartisan support. The bill (AB 302), commonly called the “Purple Light” Bill, allows funeral directors to utilize a flashing purple light to designate a funeral procession on the roadway.
“This bill will help make our roads safer, while at the same time showing respect for those we have lost during a funeral procession and recognizing one of life’s most solemn moments,” Kaufert said. “Flashing purple lights send other drivers a clear, unmistakable message: this a funeral procession, yield and show respect.”
Current law authorizes the lead vehicle in a funeral procession to utilize a flashing amber light during the procession. AB 302 adds an additional option for funeral directors by authorizing the use of a flashing purple light. The color purple isn’t used for any other emergency or utility vehicles. That means it will stand out without causing confusion.
Allowing the use of purple lights provides a distinct and universally recognizable signal to alert other drivers of a funeral procession and to yield appropriately. It will reduce the risk of accidents or other disruptions of the procession. Flashing amber lights are already used by a wide variety of other emergency and utility vehicles, which makes their meaning less clear to discern for a driver when they see them. Purple lights are not used to designate any other vehicle type, and therefore better distinguish funeral processions.
The color purple was chosen because it is viewed as a symbol of mourning and culturally associated with funerals. This bill aligns Wisconsin with at least a dozen other states that authorize purple lights, including neighboring Illinois. The bill now moves to the State Senate for consideration.
