The US Federal Highway Administration is set to ban humorous and pop culture references on highway signs nationwide starting in 2026. The regulatory agency believes that such messages can be distracting to drivers and may diminish respect for the signs.

The new guidelines, outlined in a hefty 1,100-page manual on America's signs and other traffic-control devices, emphasize the need for signs to be "simple, direct, brief, legible, and clear."

Messages intended to be humorous or containing pop culture references will no longer be allowed. Instead, signs should focus on providing important information such as warnings about crashes, weather conditions, and traffic delays. Seatbelt reminders and messages about the dangers of speeding or driving impaired will still be permitted.

State transportation officials in Colorado believe that their current messages already comply with the new rules, as they strive for simplicity and clarity without relying on pop culture references.

The Colorado Department of Transportation has gained attention for its memorable and effective signs, such as "Camp in the mountains, not in the left lane" and "Cats have 9 lives, you have 1, buckle up."

These messages are designed to capture drivers' attention and promote safe driving habits without compromising their focus on the road.

Other states, including Illinois, Mississippi, and Arizona, have also embraced the use of humorous signs to convey important safety messages. Illinois introduced signs related to marijuana after the drug was legalized, with one sign reading, "Got the Munchies? Get Food Delivered. Don't Drive High!"

Mississippi utilized references from popular culture, including the film Christmas Vacation and the Star Wars show The Mandalorian, to engage drivers and raise awareness about safe driving practices.

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In Arizona, the state transportation department has even held a contest for the funniest and most creative messages on their electronic signs. Last year's winners included humorous phrases like "Seatbelts always pass a vibe check" and "I'm just a sign asking drivers to use turn signals."

Critics argue that rather than focusing on curbing humorous signs, the federal government should prioritize more pressing issues. They believe that this crackdown on fun and engaging messages undermines the efforts of states to promote safe driving habits and reduce fatalities on the roads.