Bill > S1146

This bill makes several key changes to the legal provisions governing constables in Massachusetts. First, it establishes new qualification requirements for constable supervisors, specifying that a supervisor must be either a municipal executive or the principal law enforcement agency of the municipality where the constable serves, and must agree in writing to serve as the constable's supervisor. Second, the bill provides a detailed definition of "arrest" for constables, including what constitutes a seizure or detention, and sets specific certification requirements for constables to execute arrests. Constables must have a valid certification from the Massachusetts peace officer standards and training commission and possess the legal authority to make arrests. The bill also reaffirms existing powers of constables to serve writs, processes, and warrants, and to require aid in executing their duties. Finally, the bill directs the Massachusetts peace officer standards and training commission to create regulations for implementing the act, with a specific focus on constable supervision. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines and standards for constables' roles and responsibilities in law enforcement.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1146