Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed a law expanding legal protections for transit workers, increasing penalties for assaults—including those involving bodily fluids—starting January 4, 2026, according to a state government release.
According to Mass.gov, Legislation H4645 expands protections for public employees to include transit workers, responding to a rise in attacks. “Public transportation employees do important work every day…They should never be subject to any form of assault simply for doing their jobs,” Governor Healey said in a state announcement.
The bill also aims to foster a respectful and secure workplace. Phillip Eng, Interim Secretary and General Manager, highlighted transit workers’ year-round efforts to maintain a safe system. Union leaders, including Jim Evers of Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589, expressed strong support, saying the law ensures workers are protected and assailants are held accountable.
The bill has broad support from the Lieutenant Governor, House Speaker, Senate President, and transit agencies, reflecting a unified effort to protect increasingly vulnerable transit workers. “Our transit workers keep Greater Boston moving every day and deserve our utmost respect,” said William Berardino, Vice President of Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589, according to Mass.gov.
