Massachusetts Environmental Police Speeding Ticket Authority

If you've ever found yourself speeding in Massachusetts, you might wonder whether an environmental police officer has the authority to pull you over.

The answer is in Massachusetts General Law - Part I, Title II, Chapter 21A, Section 10G, which outlines the powers of environmental police officers and other law enforcement officials.

According to Section 10G, environmental police officers in Massachusetts have the authority to enforce specific laws related to environmental protection, besides those involving shellfish beds and boating regulations under Chapter 90B. If an environmental police officer (along with local and state police and harbormasters) determines that a violation has occurred, they are empowered to take action.

Environmental Police and Speeding

While the primary focus of environmental police officers is on environmental laws, they do possess broad law enforcement authority. This means that if an environmental police officer catches you speeding or violating other traffic laws, they have the legal right to stop you, just as any other law enforcement officer would.

If Environmental Police Pull You Over

If you are stopped by an environmental police officer, the officer may request that you state your name and address. Under the law, if you refuse to provide this information or provide false information, you could be arrested without a warrant. Alternatively, the officer may issue you a written notice to appear before the district court, giving you up to 21 days to address the violation.

So, no, environmental police officers are not limited to enforcing environmental regulations. They can also pull you over for traffic violations like speeding. As with any law enforcement interaction, it's important to comply with their requests to avoid additional penalties.

The next time you're driving in Massachusetts, remember that environmental police officers, like other branches of law enforcement, are also there to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

Cue "the more you know" shooting star.

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