WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 2171

An Act relative to the enhanced disposition of surplus motor vehicles owned by the commonwealth or authorities established by the state

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

Gives cities and towns the first option to buy surplus state motor vehicles and equipment (including authority assets) before public sale; EOAF sets sale rules.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2171

Summary: HD 2171 — An Act relative to the enhanced disposition of surplus motor vehicles owned by the commonwealth or authorities established by the state

Purpose and scope

This bill amends Chapter 30 of the General Laws to change how the Commonwealth disposes of surplus motor vehicles. The central goal is to give cities and towns first opportunity to purchase or bid on surplus state vehicles, including equipment owned by state authorities. If municipalities do not acquire the surplus, the vehicles may be sold to or auctioned to the general public.

Key provisions

  • Adds a new paragraph to the end of the first paragraph of Section 36A of Chapter 30.
  • Surplus state motor vehicles, including those owned by state authorities and construction and snow removal equipment, must be offered for sale or auction to cities and towns within the Commonwealth before they are sold to the general public.
  • The Executive Office of Administration and Finance (EOA&F) must promulgate rules and regulations governing these sales/auctions. These rules cover:
    • Notice protocols
    • Payment terms
    • Delivery arrangements
    • Liability considerations
  • If a surplus vehicle is not sold or auctioned to municipalities under this process, it may then be made available to the general public for sale and/or auction.
  • Definition of motor vehicle: any vehicle designed for propulsion by power other than muscular strength, including vehicles that are pulled or towed by another motor vehicle.

Affected parties

  • Commonwealth agencies and state authorities that own surplus motor vehicles (including construction and snow removal equipment).
  • Cities and towns in the Commonwealth, as primary purchasers of surplus vehicles.
  • General public as a secondary market, should municipal sale/auction not occur.

Process and timing

  • Surplus determination triggers the new disposition channel to municipalities first.
  • EOAF is required to develop and publish the regulatory framework governing these sales, including timelines and procedures, though the bill does not specify exact dates for implementation.
  • If not sold to municipalities, vehicles proceed to public sale/auction under the established rules.

Impacts and considerations

  • Municipal benefit: municipalities gain prioritized access to surplus state vehicles, potentially reducing procurement costs and improving equipment availability.
  • State revenue and asset recovery: maintaining a staged disposal process may affect pricing, liquidity, and how quickly assets are recycled into the market.
  • Administrative burden: implementation depends on the promulgation of rules by EOAF and coordination with state agencies.

Status and context

  • The bill as introduced in this filing (House No. 3289) reflects a concept previously discussed in a 2023-2024 session (House No. 2983).
  • The user-provided status lists HD 2171 with an introduction date of November 29, 2025, while the accompanying text shows a filing date of January 15, 2025. Status updates are not provided in the excerpt.

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

Sign in to ask a question.