Virginia Governor Signs ‘Squatted Truck’ Ban Into Law

Virginia’s governor signed into law Monday a ban on squatted trucks just weeks after a crash that left a 27-year-old man dead.

The legislation signed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin prohibits modifications that make a vehicle’s front bumper 4 or more inches higher than the rear bumper. Critics of the modification — sometimes called the “Carolina Squat” — say the upward tilt may leave drivers unable to clearly see ahead. The governor’s office said Monday that the ban will become law within the next day after a final technical step.

The family of Jody “BJ” Upton Jr., who was killed in a Feb. 16 crash in Mecklenburg County, pushed for the legislation and joined the governor for the signing ceremony in Lynchburg. Virginia State Police said the crash remains under investigation, including whether modifications to the truck that hit Upton’s were a contributing factor.

“Nothing can bring BJ back, but with faith, time and love we can begin to heal from the pain of losing him,” Youngkin said in a statement. “But the spirit of Virginia is strong, and when Virginians see a problem they come together and act.”

A similar ban went into effect in North Carolina last year.