While utilizing used farm equipment has been seen as a significant cost savings for some time now, many older models do not sport the same safety features of their newer counterparts, which can lead to a larger number of accidents than necessary. As a result, some states are offering assistance to farmers in upgrading their used tractors in order to make them safer.

The Associated Press recently reported that a program in New York will rebate a large percentage of the costs for upgrading used tractors with installing roll bars and seat belts. The program is also expected to expand to other Northeastern states like Pennsylvania and Vermont. New Hampshire is a potential candidate as well.

According to the program terms, used tractor owners can have up to 70 percent of the equipment upgrade costs reimbursed. That can lead to savings of as much as $765. The program also provides a toll-free number to find out the type of safety equipment that matches a farmer’s particular machine. Many insurance companies have contributed to the cause, with the Cooperative Insurance Companies of Middlebury donating $45,000 to the upgrade program in Vermont. Be sure to check with your local government office for further details.