(BOSTON 10/23/2025) — Last week, The Massachusetts Senate approved legislation improving the safety of drivers and telecom, gas, and electric utility workers with an expansion of the state’s Move Over law.

Under An Act relative to the Move Over Law, S.2642, motorists would be required to slow down if they are approaching a stationary utility truck or a stopped vehicle with flashing lights on the shoulder of a road or breakdown lane of a highway. Drivers on a highway with multiple lanes in each direction would also be required, if practicable, to change lanes to ensure greater safety for vehicles and individuals in the breakdown lane. The state’s existing Move Over law provides such protections for emergency response vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles, and tow trucks.

“Massachusetts’ Move Over law has saved lives across the Commonwealth. This bill is a straightforward, common-sense expansion of the law to protect others who often find themselves on the sides of busy roads or highways,” said Senator Michael Moore (D-Millbury). “This legislation enhances road safety for all. I look forward to seeing this bill be signed by Governor Healey so that we can bring a bit more peace of mind to both utility workers and everyday people.”

Utility workers often work in dangerous settings along busy streets. A gas operations technician was fatally struck by a driver in 2023 while on the job on a major road near Route 128 in Waltham. A police officer also died as a result of the crash.

The current Move Over law already applies to first responders and law enforcement working on the side of roadways. The proposed expansion steps up enforcement and driver education for those who break the law, adding a required education program for motorists who commit a second or subsequent violation. An existing $100 fine would increase to $250 for the second offense and $500 for third and subsequent violations.

The legislation was advanced to the floor on a 15-0 vote of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means on October 9, 2025, following a 7-0 vote of the Joint Committee on Transportation on July 7, 2025. All committee votes are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website.

The legislation has been approved by the Senate and now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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