Law named after Massachusetts 14-year-old killed in dirt bike crash takes big step forward

BOSTON – State Representative Steven Xiarhos (R–Barnstable) announced today that Colby’s Law has received unanimous support from the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security and will now move forward in the legislative process.

Representative Xiarhos expressed deep gratitude to House Chair Dan Cahill and members of the Committee for their support, as well as to the Lippincott family and the many friends, advocates, and community members who traveled to the State House in July, testified virtually, or submitted written testimony in support of the bill.

“We did it,” said Representative Xiarhos. “This is a big step forward — turning tragedy into triumph in memory of a young Sandwich (boy) who gave his all. Colby’s Law will help keep the sport of BMX motocross going strong and safer for everyone.”

Representative Xiarhos also thanked his legislative colleagues who co-sponsored the bill and helped make this milestone possible — Representatives Paul McMurtry, Patrick Kearney, Margaret Scarsdale, and Richard Wells, along with Senators Patrick O’Connor and Dylan Fernandes.

“Your support means so much,” added Xiarhos. “Together, we’re honoring Colby’s spirit and making a real difference for riders and families across Massachusetts.”

Colby Andrew Lippincott, a 14-year-old honors student, tragically died on June 15, 2024, following a dirt bike accident at the Diamond MX Motocross track in Wareham.

The accident occurred shortly after 12:30 p.m. when Colby suffered life-threatening injuries during a ride after hitting a tree. Emergency responders transported him to Tobey Hospital in Wareham, where he was pronounced dead.

Key provisions of Colby’s Law include requiring tracks to register with the state, undergo annual safety inspections, maintain liability insurance (to cover medical costs without burdening families), standardize safety equipment, and implement measures like safety nets, hay bales, medical staff on site during events, warning signs for jumps, tree-free perimeters, track monitoring, age and height restrictions, and mandatory safety courses for riders.