Legalizing kei vehicles in ma

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 27, 2025

Representatives Arriaga and Ramos Looking to Legalize Kei Vehicles

Boston, MA –  State Representatives Shirley Arriaga and Orlando Ramos are aiming to pass a bill that will establish a clear legal pathway for Kei vehicles to be registered in Massachusetts.

Kei trucks, which are imported from Japan, have become popular amongst residents and small businesses because of their compact size and affordability. Kei vehicles are having an immensely positive impact, particularly in the landscaping and agricultural industries.

Bill H.4053 comes shortly after the Registry of Motor Vehicles reversed its ban on the registration of Kei trucks after completing an assessment of the brand’s industry standards. The transition from these vehicles being banned to being legalized has created confusion and unnecessary obstacles for Massachusetts residents who want to register them. 

The bill seeks to remedy this by creating clear and comprehensive guidelines on what is needed to register Kei vehicles safely. Specifically, the bill will insert a new section into the already existing MGL Chapter 90. This section will define what qualifies as a Kei vehicle and permit the RMV to accept registrations for them, so long as the criteria are met.

“By doing so, it protects consumers, provides clear guidance for law enforcement and RMV personnel, and supports small business owners who depend on these vehicles to operate efficiently and affordably,” said Representative Arriaga.

The Joint Committee on Transportation has conducted a hearing on this bill and voted it out of committee favorably.

For more information, please contact the Office of Representative Shirley Arriaga at (617) 722-2305 or Shirley.Arriaga@mahouse.gov.