Bill
H 3780
MassDOT will implement a funded, auditable program using new safety tech and redesigned standards to prevent wrong-way driving on limited-access roads, with a public plan by 6/30/
Purpose and intent
- The bill seeks to prevent and mitigate wrong-way driving on Massachusetts limited-access roadways. It directs the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), in consultation with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), to adopt and implement a comprehensive program addressing wrong-way incidents.
Key provisions
- Program components (potential and not limited to):
- Installation of new highway safety technology (e.g., intelligent transportation systems, detection and alert mechanisms).
- A plan of capital improvements related to wrong-way driving prevention.
- Changes to highway design guidelines and traffic control device standards.
- Scope: Applies to limited-access roadways under the Commonwealth’s jurisdiction.
- Planning and reporting requirements:
- MassDOT must develop the program and provide a detailed project plan, including a projected budget and a schedule for implementation.
- The plan and budget must be filed with the House and Senate committees on Ways and Means and the House and Senate co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Transportation.
- The plan must be publicly available on MassDOT’s website.
- Deadline for making these details public: no later than June 30, 2026.
Implementation and oversight
- MassDOT, in collaboration with EOPSS, is responsible for adopting and implementing the program.
- The bill envisions a multi-year implementation with a transparent public-facing plan and budget.
Fiscal and timeline considerations
- Although specific dollar amounts are not listed in the text, the bill requires a projected budget as part of the program plan.
- A concrete implementation timeline is required, culminating in a publicly posted plan by June 30, 2026.
Affected parties
- MassDOT and EOPSS (lead agencies for program development and execution).
- Highway designers, traffic engineers, transportation planners.
- Law enforcement and public safety partners involved in managing and preventing wrong-way driving.
- General driving public on limited-access roadways.
Legislative history and status
- Introduced: February 27, 2025.
- Referred to the Committee on Transportation on February 27, 2025.
- Senate concurrence noted on February 27, 2025.
- Hearing status: The hearing was scheduled and rescheduled multiple times for October 2025, with updated locations and times (A-2 and virtual options).
Related bill
- HD 166 is noted as a related version (replaces). The current text corresponds to House Bill 3780 as the companion to the HD 166 filing.
Impact focus
- The bill aims to reduce wrong-way crashes on limited-access roadways by modernizing safety technology, updating design and traffic-control standards, and establishing a funded, auditable implementation plan with public accountability by mid-2026.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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