Bill > H1635

This bill introduces several provisions aimed at protecting individuals from immigration enforcement actions within Massachusetts state and local government contexts. It prohibits the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles from sharing information with federal immigration agencies, except with a judge-signed probable cause warrant, and restricts the disclosure of criminal offender record information for non-criminal justice purposes. The bill establishes that interviews or questioning related to immigration investigations of people in state or local custody can only occur with the individual's written, informed consent, and individuals must be allowed to have an attorney present if they request one. The bill also requires a uniform consent form to be developed in multiple languages, explaining the voluntary nature of such interviews. Additionally, court personnel and officials are restricted from proactively notifying federal agencies about individuals' presence in courthouses, and victims, witnesses, and their family members cannot be asked about immigration status unless legally required. The legislation provides a mechanism for the Superior Court to hear claims arising from violations of these provisions, effectively creating additional protections for individuals against potential immigration enforcement actions within state jurisdictions.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1635