Bill > S2133

This bill amends Chapter 78 of the Massachusetts General Laws to enhance the privacy protections for library user data. Specifically, the bill adds a new section that explicitly states that library records revealing a user's identity and intellectual interests are not considered public records, which means they cannot be freely accessed by the general public. The only circumstances under which these private library records can be accessed are with a proper judicial warrant issued through chapter 276 or during urgent, legally defined "exigent circumstances" that would justify immediate review. By removing an existing sentence in the original law and inserting this new provision, the bill aims to safeguard the confidentiality of library patrons' research and reading habits, protecting their intellectual privacy from unwarranted scrutiny or disclosure.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2133