Gov. files bill to create rules for motorized ‘micromobility’ devices

Gov. Maura Healey filed a legislative package on May 4 that would create a comprehensive regulatory framework for motorized “micromobility” vehicles in an effort to bolster public safety.

The governor’s Ride Safe Bill reflects recommendations made by a Special Commission on Micromobility, on which the MMA had two seats.

The use of micromobility devices, such as motorized bikes, scooters and skateboards, has been on the rise, but local and statewide regulations have not been able to keep up with the quickly evolving landscape of the technology.

Central to the legislation is a new, speed-based framework for categorizing various micromobility devices.

Lower-speed e-bikes, not exceeding 20 miles per hour, would continue to follow standard bike lane rules, with an added helmet requirement for riders under age 16.

For mid-speed devices (21-30 mph), riders would still be permitted on bike lanes and paths, but under heightened safety rules. The bill calls for a minimum age of 16 and a helmet requirement for all operators and passengers, regardless of age.

Devices that reach speeds of 30 or more miles per hour would be subject to stricter requirements, including mandatory registration and insurance and a minimum age of 16. To minimize conflicts on the street and protect vulnerable road users, the faster devices would not be permitted in bike lanes or on pedestrian paths.

The bill also introduces several provisions aimed at maintaining the integrity of the new safety standards. It would prohibit the modification of devices after purchase to increase their speed, and would ensure that law enforcement officers can apply consistent rules to unsafe behaviors across all device types.

The bill seeks to improve the collection of crash data, allowing the state and municipalities to more comprehensively track injuries and identify safety risks within the existing infrastructure.

The legislation would establish a statewide working group to guide the next phase of street and micromobility policy, with the MMA holding one appointed seat. The working group would be responsible for overseeing the future of micromobility regulations in Massachusetts, offering recommendations on registration, enforcement and infrastructure.

The Joint Committee on Transportation has scheduled a hearing on the bill on May 28.