HD 3371 defines "Class 3 electric bicycles" as those with pedal-assist motors that stop aiding at 28 mph. It updates the general definition of "electric bicycle" to include all three classes (1, 2, and 3) and removes the prohibition on riding them on sidewalks. The bill also amends trail regulations to allow municipalities, after public notice and hearing, to regulate or prohibit e-bikes on natural surface trails (cleared soil, no added surfacing), replacing a prior outright ban. This directly affects e-bike riders, manufacturers, and local governments managing trails and public spaces.
This bill creates a monthly payment plan for drivers with $250 or more in unpaid tolls, fines, or fees through Massachusetts' EZ-Pass or Pay By Plate systems. It requires the Department of Transportation to contact account holders owing over $100 monthly and establishes a minimum $25 monthly payment option. Crucially, drivers on this plan cannot face additional fees for late payments, and the Registry of Motor Vehicles must not suspend licenses or registrations for unpaid tolls while payments are current. The plan applies only to debts exceeding $250, with conditional license reinstatement allowed after the first payment.
This bill changes how Massachusetts allocates state funds for municipal road and bridge projects (Chapter 90 funds). It requires the commissioner to distribute these funds using a new formula based on three factors: population (15.333%), road mileage (69.334%), and employment (15.333%). The formula applies to all expenditures for maintaining, repairing, improving, and constructing municipal ways, bridges, and eligible projects. This directly affects cities and towns receiving these state funds by making the allocation process more standardized and transparent. The change replaces previous allocation methods with this specific, quantifiable formula.
This bill creates a new pathway for individuals to become school bus drivers without holding a full Commercial Driver's License (CDL) upfront. It allows people without a CDL to take the written exam solely for school bus operation, exempting them from questions about vehicle maintenance and inspections. The resulting license would only permit operating school buses, requiring a full CDL exam for other commercial vehicles. School districts, as the vehicle owners, would be responsible for ensuring all school bus maintenance and inspections are properly conducted.
This bill (SD 1976) updates how Massachusetts allocates Chapter 90 funds for municipal road and bridge projects. It directs the commissioner to distribute funds based on specific resurfacing percentages: 2% of non-state roads and 3.3% of state-numbered routes in each municipality. The bill also changes how the Municipal Match Program calculates local matching requirements, using equal weight for property values and personal income, with a 12.5% minimum and 200% maximum match limit. These changes directly affect all municipalities receiving Chapter 90 funding for road maintenance and improvements.
By Representative Galvin of Canton, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of William C. Galvin relative to permitting for the transportation of certain loads. Transportation.
By Representative Cusack of Braintree, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Mark J. Cusack for legislation to authorize automated curb enforcement and improving parking violation procedures. Transportation.
This bill requires Massachusetts' Department of Transportation to create and implement a program preventing wrong-way driving on limited-access roads (like highways). The program must include safety technology, road design changes, and capital improvements, developed with public safety officials. It mandates a detailed plan - covering budget, timeline, and specific safety measures - to be submitted to legislative committees and posted online by June 30, 2026. The bill directly affects drivers on Massachusetts' limited-access roadways and sets a clear deadline for the state to act.
This bill requires Massachusetts public transit agencies (like the MBTA and regional authorities) to create and display a formal "riders' bill of rights" for paratransit users with disabilities. It guarantees 14 specific rights, including safe and reliable transportation, professional service, clear information, appeal processes for eligibility denials, on-time service, accessible vehicles, and protection against discrimination. Agencies must post this bill of rights on their websites, in printed materials, and provide accessible formats upon request. The law takes effect January 1, 2027, directly affecting paratransit riders who rely on these ADA-compliant transportation services.
This bill prohibits drivers from recording, broadcasting, or using augmented reality devices while operating a vehicle. It also bans viewing non-essential video, images, or text on in-vehicle displays or wearable devices, with exceptions for hands-free features, audio systems, manufacturer-installed equipment, dispatch systems, or footage of other vehicle occupants. The law applies to all motor vehicle operators and specifically targets distractions from devices or displays unrelated to driving. Enforcement is limited to situations where a driver is already stopped for another traffic violation.
