The bill amends Chapter 31-15 of the General Laws by introducing a new section, 31-15-20.1, which permits lane splitting by motorcycles under specific conditions. Lane splitting is defined as the act of a motorcycle, with two wheels in contact with the ground, driving between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same lane, applicable on both divided and undivided streets, roads, or highways. The conditions for lane splitting include: (1) traffic must be stopped or traveling at a speed of no greater than ten miles per hour (10 mph); (2) the motorcycle operator must not exceed ten miles per hour (10 mph) above the rate of speed of the current traffic flow; (3) the motorcycle operator must merge with traffic once the ten miles per hour (10 mph) lane splitting restriction speed has been achieved by the flow of traffic; and (4) the posted speed limit on the highway being traveled must be greater than fifty miles per hour (50 mph).

The bill also authorizes the administrator to develop rules and regulations necessary to implement this section in consultation with the department of public safety. The provisions allowing lane splitting by motorcycles will cease on January 28, 2023. The act will take effect upon passage and will sunset on January 31, 2026.