Governor signs bill making “Carolina Squat” illegal

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WDBJ) - Governor Glenn Youngkin was in Lynchburg Monday morning, signing Senate Bill 777, which bans “Carolina Squat” vehicle modifications from Virginia highways.

The modification raises the front bumper of a vehicle so it rides higher than the rear.

The legislation was prompted by a fatal crash this year, and the modification of a vehicle contributed to that crash, according to the family of crash victim Jody “BJ” Upton, Jr.

“I’m honored today to be here with BJ’s family, the public servants who acted quickly to move legislation to my desk to address the problem, and the law enforcement heroes who will enforce this new law and keep our roads and highways safer,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Nothing can bring BJ back, but with faith, time and love we can begin to heal from the pain of losing him. But the spirit of Virginia is strong, and when Virginians see a problem they come together and act.”

The law prohibits vehicles from operating on public highways if the front bumper is four inches or higher than the rear. It will be classified as a primary offense, allowing officers to pull over a vehicle that violates the law.

“On February 16, a Virginian, BJ Upton, lost his life in a tragic car accident. Today, joined by members of BJ Upton’s family, my colleagues in the General Assembly, and law enforcement leaders, we took a critical step forward to prevent any further lives being lost at the hands of this dangerous truck modification. I am honored to have carried this bill and am grateful to Governor Youngkin and my colleagues for coming together in support of this important legislation,” said Senator Mark Peake (R-22), who introduced the bill.