Bill
SD 3078
Establishes mandatory safety standards for BMX and motocross tracks, requiring annual permits, design and gear rules, youth protections, insurance, and enforcement.
Status and Sponsorship
- Bill Number: SD 3078
- Title: An Act establishing safety standards for BMX bicycle and motorcross tracks
- Common name: Colby’s Law (Section 1)
- Introduced: July 24, 2025
- Sponsored by: Sen. Dylan A. Fernandes (with co-petitioner Sen. Steven George Xiarhos)
- Current status: Referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security; Rules suspended on July 31, 2025; concurrent referral to the Rules of the two branches as of July 24, 2025
Purpose and Scope
- The bill seeks to establish comprehensive safety standards for BMX bicycle tracks and motocross tracks operating in Massachusetts, including facility design, participant safety, operator responsibilities, youth protections, enforcement mechanisms, and public education.
Key Provisions
1) Design, Operation, and Permitting
- All BMX and motocross tracks must register with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS).
- Annual operating permits are required, issued after facilities pass EOPSS inspections to verify compliance with safety standards.
2) Facility Design and Safety Standards (Section 5)
- Minimum design and maintenance requirements:
- Proper grading and surface conditions to reduce hazards
- Barriers and safety netting to protect spectators
- Clearly marked zones for participants and spectators
- Emergency medical readiness:
- On-site first aid and AEDs
- A certified medical professional present during events
- Established emergency contact and service protocols
- Mandatory track rules and safety signage
3) Participant Safety Equipment and Briefings (Section 6)
- Protective gear required:
- Helmets meeting U.S. CPSC standards
- Elbow/knee pads, gloves, and body armor for motocross riders
- Safety briefings for new participants
4) Insurance and Financial Responsibility (Section 7)
- Track operators must maintain liability insurance covering injuries and damages on site
5) Youth Safety Measures (Section 8)
- Riders under 18 must have written parental/guardian consent
- Youth-specific safety controls (e.g., speed limits, restricted access to advanced courses)
6) Enforcement and Penalties (Section 9)
- EOPSS authority to enforce via inspections, fines, or suspension of operating permits
- Penalties: fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 based on severity
7) Public Awareness and Education (Section 10)
- EOPSS to develop statewide safety outreach, including educational materials and training programs
Who or What Is Affected
- BMX and motocross track operators: must register, obtain annual permits, meet safety standards, maintain insurance, and comply with enforcement measures.
- Participants (including minors) and spectators: subject to safety requirements, protective gear, and designated zones; youth participants require parental consent.
- EOPSS and public safety agencies: responsible for inspections, enforcement, and public awareness campaigns.
Implementation and Timeline
- The bill establishes ongoing regulatory requirements rather than a one-time reform.
- Permits are annual and contingent on demonstrated safety compliance through EOPSS inspections.
- Enforcement tools include fines and potential suspension of permits.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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