An Act establishing a self-defense exception
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill creates a limited exception to Massachusetts’ laws regarding the interception of wire and oral communications. Specifically, it allows law enforcement to intercept communications if doing so is necessary for self-defense. The bill aims to balance privacy protections with the ability of law enforcement to respond effectively to threats of violence. It is currently under consideration by the Judiciary Committee.
Key provisions
- Allows law enforcement to intercept communications when necessary for self-defense.
- The exception applies to wire and oral communications.
- The interception must be directly related to a situation involving imminent threat of violence.
- It establishes a framework for when self-defense can justify overriding privacy protections.
- The Judiciary Committee will conduct a study on this issue.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement agencies
- Individuals whose communications may be intercepted
- The public
- The Judiciary
Notable changes
- Currently, Massachusetts law generally prohibits the interception of communications without a warrant.
- This bill introduces a specific exception for self-defense situations.
- The bill mandates a study by the Judiciary Committee to further examine the scope of the exception.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
5 on record
Primary sponsor
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
Cosponsors
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
Kimberly N. Ferguson
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