Bill > S950

This bill amends Section 14B of Chapter 269 of the Massachusetts General Laws to enhance penalties for willfully and maliciously communicating false information to public safety answering points (PSAPs) or emergency response services providers. The bill defines key terms like "emergency", "PSAP", and "silent call", and establishes penalties ranging from up to 6 months in jail and a $200 fine for a first offense, to up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for false reports that are motivated by bigotry and bias and are likely to cause great bodily harm or death. The bill also requires offenders to complete a diversity awareness program and provides for restitution to emergency response providers for costs incurred. Additionally, the bill allows victims of false emergency calls to bring civil actions to recover damages.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S950