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SD 1727

An Act relative to turning on red signals

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Robyn Kennedy

Massachusetts bill permits right turns at red traffic lights after complete stops, aligning state law with 49 other states while raising pedestrian safety concerns.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1727

Legislative bill overview

SD 1727 would modify Massachusetts traffic laws to permit drivers to turn right at red traffic signals after coming to a complete stop, similar to laws already in effect in most other U.S. states. The bill standardizes Massachusetts traffic regulations with the national norm while maintaining safety requirements for complete stops and yield obligations.

Why is this important

Currently, Massachusetts is one of only a few states that prohibits right turns on red, creating inconsistency for drivers traveling between states and potentially affecting traffic flow at intersections. Implementing this change could reduce unnecessary vehicle idling and emissions at red lights while increasing driver familiarity with uniform traffic rules across the Northeast.

Potential points of contention

  • Pedestrian and cyclist safety: Right-turn-on-red incidents historically increase accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists who have walk signals; advocates worry about vulnerable road users in urban areas with heavy foot traffic
  • Intersection design variation: Massachusetts has numerous older urban intersections with unique sight lines and geometry where blanket permission could create hazards without case-by-case assessment
  • Driver behavior compliance: Concerns that permissive rules will be misused by drivers who don't fully stop or fail to yield, particularly in high-traffic urban centers like Boston

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

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