Massachusetts Legislature to Debate Governor Healey’s SB 3077 in Public Hearing

The Massachusetts Legislature Will Hear Governor Healey’s Micromobility Safety Bill Thursday

BOSTON — On Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Transportation will hold a public hearing on Senate Bill 3077, Governor Maura Healey’s proposed legislation to enhance the safe use of micromobility devices in the state. The bill, introduced on May 4, 2026, follows a formal recommendation from the governor’s office and aims to clarify regulations, improve rider safety and address growing concerns about micromobility-related incidents.

The hearing, scheduled from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room A-1 of the State House, will provide stakeholders—including transportation advocates, local governments, and micromobility operators—the opportunity to testify on the bill’s provisions. Supporters argue that stricter standards are necessary as the use of e-scooters, e-bikes, and other micromobility devices continues to rise in urban and suburban areas.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The primary focus of Senate Bill 3077 is to refine definitions and operational rules for micromobility devices, ensuring consistency across municipalities. While the full text of the bill has not yet been publicly released in its final form, the legislation is expected to address:

• Age and licensing requirements for riders, particularly for electric scooters and mopeds.
• Speed limits and geofencing to restrict device use in high-traffic or unsafe areas.
• Operator licensing and insurance mandates for companies providing shared micromobility services.
• Enforcement mechanisms, including penalties for violations such as reckless riding or unauthorized device deployment.

The bill’s introduction comes amid a broader push in Massachusetts to modernize transportation policies. In a May 4 statement, Governor Healey’s office highlighted the need for balanced regulations that support innovation while protecting public safety. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, who co-chairs the administration’s transportation initiatives, has emphasized the role of micromobility in reducing congestion and emissions—provided safety standards are met.

Stakeholder Reactions and Public Engagement

Advocacy groups, including the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition, have expressed support for the bill’s goals but called for additional safeguards, such as expanded education campaigns and better infrastructure for micromobility users. The coalition has framed the legislation as a critical step toward reducing accidents, which have increased alongside the popularity of shared e-scooters in cities like Boston and Cambridge.

Local governments, however, have raised concerns about the bill’s potential impact on municipal budgets, particularly if new enforcement responsibilities are assigned without additional state funding. Some cities have already implemented their own micromobility ordinances, creating a patchwork of rules that the bill seeks to standardize.

The hearing will also feature testimony from micromobility operators, who argue that clearer regulations could improve service reliability and reduce liability risks. Industry representatives have noted that inconsistent local policies have led to confusion among riders and operators alike, undermining trust in the emerging sector.

Next Steps in the Legislative Process

Following Thursday’s hearing, the Joint Committee on Transportation will review public feedback before deciding whether to advance the bill. If approved, it would proceed to the full Senate and House for further debate. Given the bipartisan nature of transportation issues in Massachusetts, the bill has a strong chance of gaining traction, particularly if amendments are proposed to address municipal concerns.

Governor Healey’s office has not set a timeline for potential signing, but supporters anticipate swift action if the legislation is deemed necessary to prevent further safety incidents. The administration has previously signaled its commitment to expanding sustainable transportation options, and micromobility—when properly regulated—aligns with that vision.

For those wishing to testify or submit written comments, the Massachusetts Legislature’s website provides instructions for public participation. The hearing will be open to the public, with remote testimony options available for those unable to attend in person.

Sources:

• Massachusetts General Laws (Bill S.3077), May 4, 2026 (malegislature.gov)
• Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition, May 21, 2026 (massbike.org)
• Governor Maura Healey’s Office, May 4, 2026 (Mass.gov)