Exemptions

540 CMR 26.00 shall not apply to hitching mechanisms that are permanently affixed through welding or other means before July 1, 2004. However, it is unlawful, and punishable by fines and revocation of registration, for any person to permanently affix through welding or other means a hitching mechanism governed by M.G.L. c. 90, § 19K after that date. If the Registrar determines that a hitching mechanism has, in fact, been permanently affixed through welding or other means on or after July 1, 2004, the Registrar may refer such matter for enforcement and may permanently revoke the vehicle’s registration. Vehicles equipped with an apparatus that allows the hitching mechanism to be folded flat, leaving no protruding surfaces, shall only be required to have the plow itself removed if the hitching mechanism is in the folded flat position while the vehicle is in operation.