Bill > H1672

This bill establishes a new public safety communication program to improve interactions between crime victims, local law enforcement, and district attorneys' offices in Massachusetts. The program will create an automated communication system that sends victims updates about their case via text messages and emails without requiring them to download an app or create an account. These updates can include information such as when an incident report is created, case status changes, arrest information, court dates, forensic result updates, and victim resources. The system will be multilingual and allow victims to choose their preferred language interface. Local law enforcement and state police will be required to provide case information to the system, and victims can opt out if desired. The district attorney's office will be responsible for implementing the pilot program with goals of increasing transparency, improving victim communication, and providing timely case information. After one year, the office must submit an annual report to the judiciary committee detailing the program's status, participation rates, and survey responses, along with recommendations about potentially expanding the system statewide. The bill aims to create a more victim-centered approach to legal communication by leveraging technology to keep victims informed throughout the legal process.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1672