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HD 641

An Act relative to the Move Over Law

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tom Stanley

Massachusetts bill expands Move Over Law to require drivers slow down or change lanes for emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and roadside assistance workers to prevent traffic collisions.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 641

Legislative bill overview

HD 641 would expand Massachusetts's "Move Over Law" to require drivers to move to a non-adjacent lane or reduce speed when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and other roadside assistance vehicles. The bill aims to increase safety for first responders and roadside workers who face hazards from passing traffic.

Why is this important

Roadside workers and first responders are struck by vehicles at alarming rates while performing duties on roadsides. This expansion would create clearer legal obligations for drivers, potentially reducing accidents and fatalities among vulnerable workers who have limited protection from oncoming traffic.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement challenges: Determining when drivers have "reasonable opportunity" to move lanes or when conditions make it unsafe to do so could create inconsistent enforcement and disputes
  • Applicability scope: Expanding requirements beyond emergency vehicles to include tow trucks and private roadside assistance may be seen as overreach or create confusion about which vehicles trigger the law
  • Driver compliance burden: New drivers unfamiliar with expanded regulations could face citations, and the law requires drivers to monitor for multiple vehicle types in varying conditions

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

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