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Bill

HD 276

An Act to allow hardship licenses and interlocking ignition devices on motorcycles

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Joe McKenna

Allows suspended drivers with hardship licenses to operate motorcycles equipped with interlocking alcohol-detection devices in Massachusetts.

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Bill Summary · HD 276

Legislative bill overview

HD 276 would permit Massachusetts residents whose licenses have been suspended due to drunk driving convictions to obtain hardship licenses that allow them to operate motorcycles equipped with interlocking ignition devices (IIDs). The bill creates a pathway for affected individuals to maintain limited driving privileges while maintaining alcohol detection technology as a safety measure.

Why is this important

Motorcycle operators represent a distinct category of drivers with different risk profiles than car drivers, and this bill attempts to balance public safety with livelihood concerns for people with DUI convictions. The policy decision to allow motorcycles under IID supervision could affect traffic safety outcomes and recidivism rates in Massachusetts, setting a precedent for how other states handle alternative vehicle restrictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety effectiveness uncertainty: Interlocking devices on motorcycles present technical and practical challenges—devices designed for cars may not function reliably on motorcycles, and enforcement of proper use is less straightforward than with four-wheeled vehicles
  • Equity and access concerns: The policy may create disparate outcomes where only those who own motorcycles (typically a smaller, less economically diverse group) can access hardship licenses, while others without motorcycle access cannot
  • Enforcement and monitoring gaps: Motorcycles lack the same monitoring infrastructure as cars; verifying that the IID remains functional and is being used consistently may be difficult for enforcement agencies

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

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