Bill > S1136

This bill aims to modernize the Massachusetts wiretap law. The key provisions include: 1. Expanding the definition of "wire communication" to include electronic, digital, and cellular communications, while excluding certain communications like those from tone-only paging devices and tracking devices. 2. Clarifying the definition of "intercepting device" to exclude body-mounted and vehicle-mounted cameras used by law enforcement officers in the course of their duties. 3. Broadening the list of "designated offenses" that can be investigated through wiretapping to include additional serious crimes like murder, rape, human trafficking, and illegal weapons trafficking. 4. Adjusting various procedural requirements for obtaining and executing wiretap warrants, such as the duration of warrants and renewals, the manner of execution, and the ability to compel service providers to assist with the interception. The overall goal is to update the state's wiretap law to reflect advancements in communication technology and provide law enforcement with updated tools to investigate a wider range of significant criminal activities, while maintaining appropriate judicial oversight and privacy protections.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S1136