S 1770
An Act relative to safety of officers by requiring interior lights in automobiles to be on during stops
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill would require drivers in Massachusetts to keep their vehicle’s interior lights turned on when a law enforcement officer is initiating or conducting a traffic stop. The goal is to improve officer safety by increasing visibility during these encounters. By illuminating the interior of the vehicle, the officer can better assess the driver and any passengers. This legislation aims to reduce the risk of surprise and potential harm during police interactions.
Key provisions
- Requires all vehicle interior lights to be on during traffic stops.
- Applies to law enforcement officers conducting traffic stops.
- The bill does not define ‘traffic stop’ with specific detail.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement officers
- Motor vehicle drivers
- Passengers in vehicles
- Vehicle owners
- The general public
Notable changes
- Currently, there is no legal requirement for vehicle interior lights to be on during traffic stops in Massachusetts.
- This bill introduces a new mandatory requirement for officers and drivers.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Bruce E. Tarr
Cosponsor
Bruce E. Tarr
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Bill S.1770 194th (Current)
An Act relative to safety of officers by requiring interior lights in automobiles to be on during stops
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1770) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation relative to safety of officers by requiring interior lights in automobiles to be on during stops. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Bruce E. Tarr Status: Referred to Senate Committee on Rules
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.1770
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 8/26/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/10/2025 from 1:00 PM-5:00 PM in A-2 |
| 1/27/2026 | Senate | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Rules |
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