MassBike is thrilled to announce two small victories in Massachusetts, marking progress for bicycling, walking, and micro-mobility. With the Governor's signature on the latest budget and clean energy siting legislation, we’re celebrating steps toward a more accessible, sustainable, and interconnected transportation future.

1. Establishing a Micro-Mobility Commission

The state budget now includes Section 306, which creates a special commission to study and recommend regulations for micro-mobility vehicles, such as e-bikes and scooters. Over the next year, the commission will evaluate current laws and propose solutions to promote micro-mobility use while ensuring safety on bike paths, sidewalks, and shared-use trails. The commission will work to create a report to be submitted by the end of 2025.

MassBike and WalkMassachusetts will proudly represent active transportation advocates on this commission, ensuring that the needs of riders and pedestrians are prioritized. This is a big step toward integrating micro-mobility into our transportation network and expanding shared options for cities and towns.

2. Opening Utility Corridors for Shared-Use Paths

The passage of Section 65 in the energy siting law introduces a crucial requirement for large infrastructure projects. 

“(iv) a description of the environmental impacts of the large clean transmission and distribution infrastructure facility, including both environmental burdens and benefits such as shared use, recreational paths or access to nature;”

Developers must now consider the potential for shared use, such as recreational paths or access to nature, when planning utility corridors. This small but impactful addition paves the way for new shared-use paths, connecting communities and increasing opportunities for outdoor recreation.

What These Wins Mean for You

These policy changes reflect the growing recognition of walking, biking, and micro-mobility as vital parts of our transportation future. Together, they will:

• Expand safe options for e-bike and scooter use.
• Foster the creation of more trails and shared-use paths as the state builds out our clean energy future.
• Promote sustainable transportation and outdoor recreation access.

MassBike is proud to be a part of these wins with our partners WalkMassachusetts and the Appalachian Mountain Club. We’re thankful for the work by our champions in the State House who got this language through, including Lt Governor Driscoll, Senator President Karen Spilka, Senator Brownsberger, Chair Crighton of the Joint Transportation Committee, Representative Ciccolo, and Chair Roy and Chair Barrett of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy.

Stay tuned for updates as the micro-mobility commission begins its work and opportunities for new trails take shape.