Bill > S941

This bill aims to improve access to justice by implementing several key provisions: 1. It prohibits the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles from disclosing information to federal agencies for civil immigration enforcement purposes, except upon a judge-approved warrant. The Attorney General is authorized to challenge any unlawful demands for information. 2. It restricts the use of criminal offender record information for non-criminal justice purposes, including civil enforcement duties. 3. It requires written informed consent from individuals in custody before they can be interviewed or questioned for immigration investigation or enforcement purposes, unless otherwise required by federal law. It also provides for the creation of a standard consent form and allows courts to hear claims related to violations of this provision. 4. It limits the ability of court personnel and prosecutors to notify federal agencies about the presence of individuals in Massachusetts courthouses, unless required by federal law. 5. It prohibits law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and court personnel from inquiring about the immigration status of victims, family members, and witnesses, except as necessary for a judge or magistrate to adjudicate matters within their jurisdiction.