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H 3817

An Act regarding right of way violations (CeCelia's Law)

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kelly Pease and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill strengthening right-of-way violation enforcement and penalties to improve traffic safety and prevent collisions.

Hearing rescheduled to 10/21/2025 from 11:00 AM-11:45 PM in A-2 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 3817

Legislative bill overview

H 3817, known as "CeCelia's Law," addresses violations of right-of-way rules in Massachusetts. The bill appears to focus on strengthening penalties or enforcement mechanisms related to right-of-way infractions, though the specific provisions require detailed legislative text for complete analysis. Named after an apparent incident victim, it represents a legislative response to traffic safety concerns.

Why is this important

Right-of-way violations are a leading factor in intersection and pedestrian-related traffic accidents. Strengthening enforcement or penalties could potentially reduce serious injuries and fatalities if the bill's mechanisms effectively deter dangerous driving behavior. The naming convention suggests the bill addresses a specific tragic incident that prompted legislative action.

Potential points of contention

  • Penalty severity: Questions about whether enhanced penalties are proportionate to violations or if they create disparate impacts on different populations
  • Enforcement equity: Concerns that increased enforcement focus could result in disproportionate ticketing in certain communities without addressing root causes
  • Definitional clarity: Potential ambiguity in what constitutes right-of-way violations and how enforcement officials apply subjective judgments

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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