S 1266
An Act updating the wiretap statutes in the commonwealth
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House
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Bill overview
This bill updates Massachusetts’ wiretap statutes, aiming to modernize the legal framework surrounding electronic surveillance. It seeks to clarify existing provisions and potentially address new technologies or evolving investigative techniques. The legislation intends to ensure that surveillance laws remain effective and aligned with current practices while protecting individual privacy rights. The bill was referred to the Judiciary committee for review and consideration.
Key provisions
- Clarifies the definition of ‘wiretapping’ and ‘intercepting communications’ within the statute.
- Addresses the use of digital surveillance technologies.
- Specifies requirements for obtaining warrants and authorizations for electronic surveillance.
- Outlines procedures for handling intercepted communications.
- Updates provisions related to the disclosure of information obtained through surveillance.
- May include provisions regarding the use of surveillance by law enforcement agencies.
- Addresses potential gaps in existing law related to new surveillance methods.
- Ensures compliance with federal wiretap laws.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement agencies
- Individuals subject to electronic surveillance
- Prosecutors
- Defense attorneys
- The general public
Notable changes
- Potential updates to warrant requirements for electronic surveillance.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Bruce E. Tarr
Cosponsors
Bruce E. Tarr
Peter J. Durant
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.1266 194th (Current)
An Act updating the wiretap statutes in the commonwealth
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1266) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation to update the wiretap statutes in the Commonwealth. The Judiciary.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Bruce E. Tarr
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill S.1266
| 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 |
| 12/18/2025 | Senate | Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2886 |
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