Bill > H1775

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding the interception of wire and oral communications by establishing a limited self-defense exception to current prohibitions on secret recording. Specifically, the bill allows an individual to secretly record a conversation if three conditions are met: (1) the person recording is a direct participant in the conversation, (2) the person is not a law enforcement officer or acting on behalf of law enforcement, and (3) the person has a reasonable fear of potential physical harm to themselves or another person. The proposed change aims to provide legal protection for individuals who secretly record conversations as a means of self-protection, addressing situations where someone feels threatened and wants to document potential evidence of potential harm. By narrowly defining the circumstances under which such recordings would be permissible, the bill seeks to balance personal safety concerns with existing privacy protections.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1775