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Bill

H 3675

An Act relative to the move over law

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Gordon and 2 co-sponsors

H 3675 modifies Massachusetts' move over law to expand or clarify driver obligations when approaching emergency or roadside service vehicles to improve worker safety.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 3675

Legislative bill overview

H 3675 proposes amendments to Massachusetts' "move over" law, which requires drivers to change lanes away from or slow down when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or highway maintenance vehicles. The bill aims to expand protections or clarify existing requirements for roadside workers and first responders. The exact scope of changes is not detailed in the available information, but the bill has progressed through committee with a favorable recommendation.

Why is this important

Roadside worker safety is a documented public health concern—emergency responders, tow truck operators, and maintenance workers face significant risk from passing vehicles. Strengthening move over laws can reduce injuries and fatalities among these essential workers. Clear, enforceable legislation also provides consistent guidance to drivers about their legal obligations in these situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope expansion: Disagreement may exist over which vehicle types or workers should be covered (police, fire, EMS, towing, utility workers, etc.)
  • Enforcement clarity: Questions about what constitutes adequate "moving over" and how violations will be detected and enforced
  • Driver burden vs. safety trade-offs: Concerns that overly broad requirements could create traffic disruptions or confusion, versus arguments that worker safety justifies stricter standards

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

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