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H 3697

Elizabeth Ancone, Deerfield Elem. Teacher of the Year

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terry Alexander and 122 co-sponsors

Mandates helmet use for operators and passengers of electrically propelled wheeled vehicles on public rights-of-way, with state helmet standards and a wheelchair exemption.

Introduced and adopted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 3697

Summary of H.3697: An Act requiring the use of helmets for electronically propelled wheeled vehicle operators and passengers

Overview

H.3697 motions to add a helmet requirement for users of electrically propelled wheeled vehicles (EPWVs) in Massachusetts. The bill is accompanied by a study order (H.4775) and was introduced on February 27, 2025. It would amend Chapter 85 of the General Laws by adding a new Section 11D1/2.

Purpose and intent

  • To require helmet use for operators and passengers of EPWVs on public ways, bicycle paths, and other public rights-of-way.
  • To promote head protection and reduce head injuries among users of electric scooters, bicycles, skateboards, and similar electrically powered devices, including hybrid electric bicycles.

Key provisions

  • Mandatory helmet use: Anyone operating an EPWV on a public way, bicycle path, or other public right-of-way must wear a helmet.
  • Helmet standards: Helmets must fit the wearer’s head, be secured with straps at all times, and meet ANSI Z 90.4 or Snell Foundation’s 1984 standard for bicycling.
  • Civil liability note: A helmet violation may not be used as evidence of contributory negligence in a civil action.
  • Exemption for wheelchairs: The requirement does not apply to individuals operating a motorized wheelchair.
  • Municipal restrictions: Cities and towns may not adopt by-laws or ordinances to modify the helmet standards established by this section.

Who is affected

  • Operators and passengers of EPWVs (including electric scooters, bicycles, skateboards, and other electronically propelled devices) on public rights-of-way.
  • Municipalities: The bill preempts local changes to helmet standards, centralizing enforcement at the state level.
  • Motorized wheelchair users are exempt from the helmet requirement.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • Status: Referred to the Senate/House Transportation committee; accompanied by a study order (H.4775).
  • Legislative actions show scheduling of hearings in mid-2025 and ongoing discussions.
  • Similar matter previously filed in 2023-2024 (House Docket No. 5363), indicating continued interest in the issue.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Public safety: Potential reduction in head injuries among EPWV users.
  • Compliance: Enforcement details (e.g., penalties or fines) are not specified in the text provided; enforcement would likely be determined through subsequent regulations or amendments.
  • Local governance: Preemption of municipal helmet-standards by state law could limit local experimentation or tailored approaches.
  • Exceptions: The exemption for motorized wheelchairs recognizes differing safety and access needs.

Related information

  • Related bill: HD 1219 (replaces)
  • The bill is part of a broader conversation on safety standards for emerging electrically propelled mobility devices.

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

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