"Sherrill's Law": NH Senate Passes Legislation That Honors Staff Sgt. Jesse Sherrill, Expands Move Over Law

CONCORD, N.H. – Today, members of the New Hampshire Senate unanimously passed legislation expanding and renaming New Hampshire’s ‘Move Over’ law in honor of State Police Staff Sgt. Jesse E. Sherrill. 

On Oct. 28, 2021, Staff Sgt. Sherrill died in the line of duty while working a construction detail on Interstate 95 in Portsmouth when his cruiser was struck by a tractor-trailer. Investigators later determined the driver of the tractor-trailer failed to move over to the next lane, despite passing at least two advance warning signs and observing multiple warning/emergency lights, according to the indictment filed in the case. The driver later pleaded guilty to felony charges of negligent homicide and reckless conduct.

RSA 265:37-a, commonly known as the state’s ‘Move Over’ law, requires drivers to slow down, move out of lanes that are partially or wholly blocked, and give plenty of space to emergency response vehicles displaying red, blue or amber lights. Senate Bill 273 amends the act by retitling it to “Sherrill's Law" and requires drivers to reduce speed and provide extra space if “a stopped or standing vehicle displaying warning signals, including vehicle hazard warning lights, road flares, traffic cones, caution signs, or any nonvehicular warning signs” is present and it’s safe to do so. 

“Sherrill's Law will stand as a vital safeguard for everyone traveling on New Hampshire roadways. This legislation embodies Jesse’s spirit, who passionately believed in the importance of protecting all citizens and visitors of New Hampshire. His memory continues to inspire us, and his dedication continues to drive our traffic safety efforts,” said New Hampshire State Police Colonel Mark Hall. “SB 273 will protect the lives and safety of first responders. It is only fitting that it should carry Staff Sgt. Sherrill’s name, as his legacy stays with us, now and forever. We urge everyone to prioritize safety by paying attention, slowing down, and moving over for those working or stopped on the side of our roads.” 

“Staff Sergeant Jesse Sherrill dedicated his life to protecting the people of New Hampshire, and his tragic passing is a stark reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers and first responders face every day,” said state Sen. Donovan Fenton, the primary sponsor of SB 273. “The Senate’s recognition of his service is a testament to his legacy, and SB 273—Sherrill’s Law—ensures that we take meaningful steps to prevent future tragedies on our roads. This legislation strengthens protections for those who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe, and I am proud to sponsor it in his honor.” 

In addition to the successful vote on the bill, members of the New Hampshire Senate also formally honored Staff Sgt. Sherrill by presenting a resolution to his wife, Nicolle, and two children, Peyton and Quinn. The resolution noted Staff Sgt. Sherrill’s dedication to public service and 20-year law enforcement career.

Sherrill, who grew up in Barrington, was hired by the New Hampshire State Police on December 13, 2002, and was initially assigned to the Troop F barracks.  He later accepted a transfer to Troop A in June 2014. Sherrill rose to the rank of sergeant before being promoted to staff sergeant at Troop A, where he served as Assistant Troop Commander. During his career, Sherrill also spent time on the Attorney General’s Drug Task Force.

The men and women of the New Hampshire State Police will forever remember and honor Staff Sgt. Sherrill and stand in solidarity with those who are committed to improving the safety of everyone on New Hampshire’s roads.