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HD 535

An Act relative to the town of Hatfield to permit the use of golf carts on the public ways of the town

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 1 co-sponsor

Permits Hatfield, MA to allow golf carts on public roads under local regulations, bypassing state motor vehicle restrictions.

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Bill Summary · HD 535

Legislative bill overview

HD 535 would allow the town of Hatfield, Massachusetts to permit golf carts to operate on public roads within the municipality. The bill grants local authority to establish regulations governing where, when, and how golf carts can be used on town streets, rather than applying statewide restrictions that currently limit golf cart road use.

Why is this important

Golf cart use on public roads is typically prohibited under Massachusetts motor vehicle laws, so this bill requires special legislation to create a local exception. For a rural town like Hatfield, permitting golf carts could provide residents with an informal transportation option for short trips while potentially reducing vehicle traffic and emissions in low-speed areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety and liability concerns: Golf carts lack the safety features of standard vehicles (airbags, crumple zones, reinforced frames), raising questions about pedestrian and occupant protection in collisions
  • Regulatory clarity: The bill doesn't specify speed limits, operator age requirements, licensing standards, or insurance requirements, leaving these details to the town to develop
  • Scope and mission creep: Establishing a precedent for golf cart use could lead to similar requests from other towns or expansion of uses beyond the original intent

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

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