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SD 2056

An Act relative to ATV vehicles owned and operated by police and fire departments

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bruce Tarr

Authorizes Massachusetts police and fire departments to purchase and operate ATVs for emergency response and rescue operations in terrain inaccessible to standard vehicles.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 2056

Legislative bill overview

SD 2056 allows police and fire departments in Massachusetts to own and operate All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for official purposes. The bill clarifies the legal authority for these agencies to purchase, maintain, and use ATVs in their operations, potentially for emergency response, search and rescue, or off-road access in areas where standard vehicles cannot operate.

Why is this important

ATVs can provide essential access to remote, difficult terrain during emergency situations, search and rescue operations, and disaster response. The bill removes potential legal ambiguity about whether departments have statutory authority to use public funds for ATV acquisition and operation, enabling more flexible emergency response capabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and resource allocation: Questions about budget priorities, especially for smaller departments with limited funding, and whether ATV acquisition diverts resources from other critical needs
  • Safety and liability: Concerns about operator training requirements, insurance coverage, accident liability, and whether adequate safety standards are established for departmental ATV use
  • Scope and regulation: Lack of specificity about permissible uses, maintenance standards, or oversight mechanisms; unclear whether this creates a blank check for equipment purchases without departmental guidelines

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

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