Bill > H1800

This bill establishes a special legislative commission focused on addressing check washing crimes, which are defined as fraudulently altering checks or money orders by chemically changing the payee name or dollar amount with the intent to cash or deposit them illegally. The commission will be composed of legislators from various committees, including the chairs of financial services and consumer protection committees, representatives appointed by legislative leaders, the commissioner of banks, a Massachusetts bankers association representative, the public safety secretary, a police chiefs association representative, and two gubernatorial appointees (including a retired postal worker and someone with federal law enforcement experience). The commission's primary objectives are to explore strategies for protecting consumers from check washing schemes, determine appropriate penalties for perpetrators, and develop more effective prosecution methods for these crimes. The commission is required to conduct at least one public hearing, investigate the issue comprehensively, and submit a detailed report with findings and legislative recommendations to the state legislature by June 30, 2026, with its first meeting to be convened within 60 days of the act's effective date.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1800