Bill > H2001

This bill amends Section 18C of Chapter 265 of the Massachusetts General Laws to provide enhanced legal protections for occupants of dwellings against illegal entry. The bill establishes that any person who illegally enters a dwelling where occupants are present has an immediate duty to retreat, and if they fail to do so, they forfeit their rights to file civil or criminal actions against the legal occupants for any injuries sustained. The bill introduces additional penalties for illegal entry, particularly when minors are present: if someone illegally enters a dwelling with minors inside and fails to retreat, they can be imprisoned in state prison for a minimum of five years. Furthermore, the bill specifies that anyone who enters a dwelling knowing occupants are present, remains in the dwelling while armed with a dangerous weapon, uses or threatens force, or intentionally causes injury to occupants can be punished by imprisonment in state prison for life or for a term of at least twenty years. These provisions appear designed to strengthen legal protections for residents, especially in situations involving potential domestic violence or home invasions, by providing clear guidelines and significant legal consequences for illegal entry and threatening behavior.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2001