S1284
An Act relative to the interception of wire and oral communications
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Bill overview
This bill seeks to modify the length of time a wiretap warrant can be issued in Massachusetts. Currently, the law allows for warrants to be renewed, but this legislation proposes a specific timeframe for the initial warrant and any subsequent renewals. It aims to provide greater clarity and limit the duration of surveillance through intercepted communications. The bill was referred to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary for review and consideration.
Key provisions
- Establishes a specific initial duration for wiretap warrants.
- Limits the number of times a wiretap warrant can be renewed.
- Requires a judicial determination of necessity for each renewal.
- Defines ‘wire and oral communications’ for the purpose of the warrant.
- Specifies the conditions under which a wiretap warrant may be issued.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement agencies
- Individuals subject to potential wiretaps
- Legal professionals involved in surveillance cases
- The judiciary
Notable changes
- Addresses the renewal process for wiretap warrants.
- Potentially limits the scope of government surveillance through communication interception.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
John C. Velis
Cosponsor
John C. Velis
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Bill S.1284 194th (Current)
An Act relative to the interception of wire and oral communications
By Mr. Velis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1284) of John C. Velis for legislation relative to the length of wiretap warrants. The Judiciary.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: John C. Velis Status: Referred to Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 7 actions for Bill S.1284
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on The Judiciary |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 9/2/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 1:00 PM-5:00 PM in A-2 and virtual |
| 10/20/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2 |
| 2/12/2026 | Senate | Reporting date extended to Monday March 2, 2026 |
| 2/26/2026 | Senate | Reporting date extended to Thursday April 2, 2026 |
| 3/30/2026 | Senate | Reporting date extended to Tuesday June 30, 2026 |
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