Summary

Permits a specific type of pulsating high‑mounted stop lamp by treating the current federal vehicle lighting standard (FMVSS No. 108) as already allowing such systems and directs the Department of Transportation to issue updated, performance‑based regulations for them within 180 days. The bill defines a “pulsating light system” as a high‑mounted stop lamp that pulses up to four times for up to 1.2 seconds when brakes are applied, then stays continuous, with a lockout of at least 5 seconds after release. The change affects vehicle manufacturers, commercial fleets, and drivers by creating a federal regulatory path for these lamps and setting a short timetable for the agency to write technical performance rules. It aims to standardize use and safety requirements while leaving technical details to DOT rulemaking.

• Immediately treats the federal lighting standard (FMVSS No. 108) as permitting defined pulsating high‑mounted stop lamps.
• Requires the Department of Transportation to issue performance‑based regulations updating FMVSS No. 108 within 180 days.
• Defines a pulsating light system: up to 4 pulses for up to 1.2 seconds on brake application, then continuous, with a 5‑second lockout after release.
• Directive focuses on performance outcomes rather than prescribing a single technical design.
• Creates a single federal regulatory path and preempts conflicting state equipment rules for covered vehicles.
• Impacts vehicle manufacturers, commercial fleets, and vehicle owners by enabling new brake‑signal designs and requiring compliance with forthcoming DOT standards.
• No new spending, tax changes, or emergency designations are included; the bill primarily mandates regulatory action.
• Safety tradeoffs (increased conspicuity vs. potential distraction) will be addressed in DOT’s rulemaking and technical requirements.