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H 3609

An Act to promote safe bicycle yielding

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jenny Armini

Bill H 3609 enhances safety for cyclists and motorists in Massachusetts by clarifying yielding and stopping rules at intersections, reducing accident risks.

Accompanied a study order, see H4775
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Bill Summary · H 3609

Summary of Bill H 3609: An Act to Promote Safe Bicycle Yielding

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3609, titled "An Act to promote safe bicycle yielding," aims to enhance safety for both cyclists and motorists at intersections in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The legislation seeks to clarify the rules of the road regarding right-of-way for bicycles, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and promoting safer interactions between bicycles and motor vehicles.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to existing laws regarding the operation of bicycles at intersections:

  1. Complete Stops at Stop Signs:

    • Cyclists must come to a complete stop at stop signs when approaching intersections with three or more lanes of traffic.
    • Cyclists must also stop at stop signs when a motor vehicle is already stopped at the same sign.

  2. Yielding Right-of-Way:

    • At intersections with two or fewer lanes, cyclists are required to reduce speed and, if necessary for safety, stop before entering. They must yield to any motor vehicle that poses an immediate hazard.
    • Cyclists must yield the right-of-way to any motor vehicle that has already entered the intersection.
    • When cyclists and motor vehicles approach an intersection from different roadways simultaneously, the vehicle or cyclist on the left must yield to the vehicle or cyclist on the right.

  3. Clarification for Motor Vehicles:

    • The bill also amends the existing laws for motor vehicles, requiring them to yield to bicycles when entering an intersection at the same time from different roadways.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Cyclists: The bill directly impacts cyclists by establishing clearer rules for yielding and stopping at intersections, which could lead to safer riding practices.
  • Motorists: Motor vehicle operators will also be affected as they will need to be more aware of cyclists' rights and responsibilities at intersections.
  • Local Governments: Municipalities may need to update signage and public awareness campaigns to reflect the new rules.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Current Status: The bill has been accompanied by a study order (H4775) as of November 24, 2025.
  • Hearing Schedule: A hearing was initially scheduled for June 16, 2025, and was later rescheduled to June 24, 2025.

Conclusion

Bill H 3609 represents a significant step toward improving road safety for cyclists in Massachusetts. By clarifying the rules of the road regarding yielding and stopping at intersections, the legislation aims to foster a safer environment for all road users. The bill's progress through the legislative process will be closely monitored, particularly as it moves to hearings and potential amendments.

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

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