H 1755
An Act for second look
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, titled ‘An Act for Second Look,’ proposes a process for reviewing the sentences of certain incarcerated individuals in Massachusetts. It aims to provide a mechanism for judges to consider whether a prisoner’s original sentence should be modified based on changes in circumstances or evidence since the sentence was imposed. The legislation seeks to offer a pathway for reducing sentences in specific cases, potentially leading to earlier release for some inmates. It is currently under review by the Judiciary Committee.
Key provisions
- Establishes a ‘second look’ review process for incarcerated individuals.
- Allows judges to consider mitigating factors and changes in circumstances.
- Specifies criteria for eligibility for sentence modification.
- Requires the Department of Correction to develop guidelines for the review process.
- Mandates reporting of second look reviews and outcomes.
Who is affected
- Currently incarcerated individuals in Massachusetts
- Judges and court officials
- The Department of Correction
Notable changes
- Introduces a formal process for sentence review beyond existing parole or commutation procedures.
- Potentially reduces prison sentences based on evolving circumstances.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Russell E. Holmes
Cosponsors
James B. Eldridge
Russell E. Holmes
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.1755 194th (Current)
An Act for second look
By Representative Holmes of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1755) of Russell E. Holmes for legislation to provide for second look review of the sentences of certain incarcerated persons. The Judiciary.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Russell E. Holmes
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 6 actions for Bill H.1755
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on The Judiciary |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 11/7/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 11/18/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 |
| 11/18/2025 | Joint | Hearing rescheduled to 11/18/2025 from 01:00 PM-08:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time |
| House | Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order | |
| 3/26/2026 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27) |
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