Rep. McGonagle-sponsored bill protecting transit workers passes in the House

Expands and solidifies protections for transit workers

Special to The Advocate

On October 22, 2025, State Representative Joe McGonagle and his bill protecting transit workers from assault scored a major victory when it was brought to the House floor and passed (160-0). The bill, H.4645, An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker, expands and solidifies existing protections for transit workers who are assaulted while on the job. McGonagle spoke on the House floor before the members advocating for the bill and shared stories of transit workers who have been assaulted on the job.

“I am beyond thrilled we have passed this bill and with such momentum and enthusiasm,” said McGonagle. “I was honored to speak before my colleagues and share why this bill is so important and urgent. I was able to share some stories of transit workers who have been beaten, threatened and spit on, just for doing their job. These hardworking men and women provide an essential service to the people of the Commonwealth and they deserve our respect and adequate protections.”

Current Massachusetts law imposes heightened penalties on individuals for assault and battery against public employees: police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other government workers. This bill adds public transit workers to that list. The bill also clarifies and broadens the definition of assault by specifically recognizing that projecting bodily fluids, such as spitting or throwing substances like urine, constitutes assault against a public worker. Offenders would face a sentence ranging from a minimum of 90 days to 2.5 years in a house of correction and a fine between $500 and $5,000 or both.

“I’m so grateful to the Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589 for their hard work on this legislation and the brave workers who have spoken about their struggles,” said McGonagle. “I also would like to thank Speaker Mariano, Chairman Michael Day and both their offices for helping push this issue forward. I am hopeful this bill will pass swiftly in the Senate and be on the Governor’s desk in no time.”

The bill was passed last session but did not move forward in the Senate. On October 23, 2025, the Senate referred the bill to its committee on Ways & Means, which recommended an amendment and passage. On November 13 a bill hearing will be held.