This bill updates Massachusetts law to officially refer to the state's transportation agency as the "Massachusetts Department of Transportation" rather than the "executive office of transportation and public works." It also adds a new definition for "utility vehicles," which are emergency vehicles used by utility companies to repair communications, electricity, or gas services. The legislation increases fines for distracted driving, introduces mandatory behavior programs for repeat offenders, and exempts first and second offenses from insurance surcharges. Additionally, it requires the state to launch an annual public awareness campaign focusing on distracted driving and bicycle safety.
Senate, July 6, 2026 -- The committee on Transportation, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2347) of Nick Collins for legislation to establish a task force to improve enforcement of existing laws governing motorized bicycles, motorized scooters, electric bicycles and mopeds and implement fines for certain offenses; (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2373) of Sal N. DiDomenico, Steven Owens and Bruce E. Tarr for legislation relative to class 3 electric bicycles; and (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 2432) of Patrick M. O'Connor that provisions be made to establish a special commission (including members of the General Court) to evaluate and study pedestrians safety through moped law enforcement, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 3168).
This bill defines "Class 3 electric bicycles" as those with pedal-assist only and a 28 mph speed limit, while updating the overall definition of "electric bicycle" to include all classes. It changes trail regulations to allow municipalities to create local rules (including speed limits) for e-bike use on natural-surface trails after public notice and hearings, replacing a previous automatic ban. The bill directly affects e-bike riders (especially Class 3 users), local governments managing trails, and trail users by shifting regulation authority to municipalities. These changes clarify e-bike classifications and give communities flexibility to manage trail access.
By Representative Owens of Watertown, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3758) of Steven Owens and Bruce E. Tarr relative to class 3 electric bicycles. Transportation.
HD 1148 amends Massachusetts traffic law to explicitly include bicycles and skateboards under the definition of "vehicle" in Chapter 90. It also clarifies that using headphones on public roadways or sidewalks is subject to the same rules as other vehicles. This change directly affects cyclists, skateboarders, and pedestrians using these modes of transportation in public spaces. The bill updates existing definitions without creating new restrictions or requirements.
By Representative Tarsky of Needham (by request), a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Bonnie Ruggiero and Richard Ruggiero relative to visibility and safety in biking. Transportation.
By Representative Kearney of Scituate, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3712) of Patrick Joseph Kearney relative to bicycle safety. Transportation.
H 3743 defines "moped" as a motorized bicycle with an engine under 50cc, automatic transmission, and a top speed of 30 mph, requiring compliance with federal safety standards. It directly affects moped operators by mandating they obtain a motorcycle license to operate these vehicles. The bill adds this definition to Massachusetts law and amends licensing rules to include mopeds under motorcycle licensing requirements. This changes how mopeds are legally categorized and regulated, impacting riders who currently use them for transportation.
By Representative Armini of Marblehead, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3609) of Jennifer Balinsky Armini relative to the operation of bicycles and motor vehicles at certain intersections. Transportation.
By Representative Howitt of Seekonk, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3692) of Steven S. Howitt relative to bicycle safety. Transportation.
