H2597
An Act relative to the definition of law enforcement officers as pertaining to possession of firearms
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- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill seeks to clarify the definition of ‘law enforcement officer’ as it relates to firearm possession in Massachusetts. It aims to regulate the circumstances under which law enforcement officers can legally own and carry firearms. The bill was referred to the Public Safety and Homeland Security committee for study and potential further action. The legislation was accompanied by a study order.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘law enforcement officer’ for the purpose of firearm regulations.
- Regulates the possession of firearms by law enforcement officers.
- Addresses the circumstances under which officers can possess firearms.
- Requires clarification of existing regulations.
- Facilitates a study order related to the issue.
- Scheduled for a hearing to gather information and perspectives.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement officers in Massachusetts
- The public
- Firearms owners
- The Massachusetts General Court
Notable changes
- Introduces a specific definition of ‘law enforcement officer’ for firearm regulations.
- Requires a study order to examine the current regulations.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
David F. DeCoste
Cosponsors
David F. DeCoste
Mackenzie Slocumb
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.2597 194th (Current)
An Act relative to the definition of law enforcement officers as pertaining to possession of firearms
By Representative DeCoste of Norwell, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2597) of David F. DeCoste and Mackenzie Slocumb for legislation to further regulate the possession of firearms by law enforcement officers. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: David F. DeCoste
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 8 actions for Bill H.2597
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security |
| House | Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order | |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 10/16/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 10/31/2025 from 11:30 AM-05:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium |
| 10/22/2025 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 10/31/2025 from 11:30 AM-05:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium and Virtual Hearing updated to include Virtual |
| 10/27/2025 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 10/31/2025 from 11:30 AM-05:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium and Virtual Hearing updated to include Virtual |
| 10/31/2025 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 10/31/2025 from 11:30 AM-05:00 PM in Gardner Auditorium and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time |
| 4/23/2026 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H5322 (under House Rule 27) |
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