Representative Day, Senator Lewis, and Mass. Legislature Protect Public Transit Workers from Assault

BOSTON—State Representative Michael Day and State Senator Jason Lewis joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature to strengthen protections for public transit workers by expanding laws governing assault and battery against on-duty personnel.

“Our public transit system runs because of the dedication of workers who show up every day to serve us,” said Representative Michael S. Day. “The Commonwealth affirms our continued commitment to protect those workers who are essential to the success of our everyday lives. I thank my colleagues in the Legislature and the Governor for their partnership in passing this measure into law, and I appreciate the advocacy of the Carmen’s Union who shared compelling and heartbreaking stories of assaults their members endured while simply doing their jobs.”

An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker advanced from the Joint Committee on the Judiciary under Representative Day’s chairmanship. H.4645 ensures that all transit employees receive the same heightened legal protections as other public employees while performing their jobs, whether employed directly by public transit agencies or employed by private contractors such as commuter rail operators.

“MBTA employees and other public transit staff are essential workers who keep us moving and safe when we are riding the subway, trains, and buses,” said Senator Jason Lewis. “Transit workers, like all other workers, should never fear being assaulted while doing their jobs, and this legislation will ensure that violent or abusive individuals are held accountable for their actions.”

In 2024, MBTA workers reported 33 assaults with weapons, 72 physical assaults, and 38 assaults with bodily fluids. The bill ensures that all transit workers are covered, including those employed by private contractors, such as employees who operate the commuter rail. The bill also explicitly defines assaults with bodily fluids, such as saliva as punishable offenses. Offenders will face a sentence ranging from a minimum of 90 days to two and a half years in a house of correction, a fine between $500 and $5,000 or both.

“Public transportation employees do important work every day to keep our trains and buses moving on time and ensure the safety of all passengers,” said Governor Maura Healey. “They should never be subject to any form of assault simply for doing their jobs. This bill ensures that they have the protections they deserve and will enhance safety for all users of our public transportation system.”

After passing in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, Governor Healey signed this legislation into law on December 3, 2025.