Bill > S1214

This bill addresses car theft involving digital devices by adding a new section to Massachusetts criminal law that defines and prohibits the use of specific technological tools for stealing vehicles. The bill introduces two key terms: a "motor vehicle key programming or emulating device" (which is any digital tool capable of electronically communicating with a vehicle to program or copy a key fob) and a "relay attack device" (a device designed to intercept signals from a key fob to unlock or start a vehicle). Under this proposed legislation, it would be illegal to manufacture, sell, transfer, possess, or help someone use such devices with the intent to steal a motor vehicle or property from a vehicle. Violations would be considered a serious criminal offense, punishable by up to ten years in state prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or imprisonment in jail for up to two and a half years. The bill aims to combat increasingly sophisticated methods of car theft that exploit digital technology and wireless communication vulnerabilities in modern vehicles.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1214