Bill > H3606

This bill amends Section 14A of Chapter 85 of the Massachusetts General Laws to provide expanded lighting and signaling privileges for funeral home vehicles. Specifically, the bill allows vehicles owned or leased by funeral homes, licensed funeral directors, or livery companies to be equipped with special lighting, including mounted flashing purple, violet, amber, clear, or white lights, as well as alternating flashing headlights or fog lights, without requiring a permit from the motor vehicle registrar. Additionally, these vehicles can now display a flashing red light in the opposite direction of travel when moving forward. These special lighting features can only be used during funeral processions or when responding to a fatality on behalf of the chief medical examiner. The bill also clarifies that all vehicles in a funeral procession are permitted to use hazard warning signals (4-way flashers). This legislation appears aimed at providing funeral home vehicles with more operational flexibility and visibility during specific professional duties.