H 4634
An Act to protect the privacy of 911 callers
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- Passed House
- Passed Senate
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Bill overview
This bill aims to protect the privacy of individuals who call 911 in Massachusetts. It establishes that audio recordings of 911 calls are considered private data, except for written transcripts which are public upon request and payment of transcription costs. The law prohibits releasing audio recordings without consent, unless a court order allows it, and outlines specific uses for audio recordings like investigations and training.
Key provisions
- Audio recordings of 911 calls are considered private data.
- Written transcripts of 911 calls are public and available upon request for a fee.
- Releasing audio recordings without consent is generally prohibited.
- A court order is required to release audio recordings without consent.
- Audio recordings may be used for law enforcement investigations.
- Audio recordings may be used for public safety and emergency services training.
- The bill does not apply to law enforcement personnel conducting investigations.
- The cost of preparing a transcript is borne by the person requesting it.
Who is affected
- Individuals who call 911
- Law enforcement agencies
- Fire departments
- Medical services providers
- The public
Notable changes
- Establishes a legal framework for protecting the privacy of 911 call recordings.
- Requires written consent or a court order for releasing audio recordings.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsors
Jason M. Lewis
Michael S. Day
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Bill H.4634 194th (Current)
An Act to protect the privacy of 911 callers
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Joint Committee on the Judiciary Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
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Bill History Cosponsors Committee Vote Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 3 actions for Bill H.4634
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 10/23/2025 | House | Reported from the committee on The Judiciary |
| 10/23/2025 | House | New draft of H1643 |
| 10/23/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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