Bill > H2027

This bill aims to establish comprehensive regulations for electronic privacy and law enforcement access to digital information in Massachusetts. It defines key terms like "electronic device", "metadata", and "cell site simulator device", and sets strict guidelines for how government offices and law enforcement can obtain or access electronic data, communications, and location information. The bill requires that such access can only occur with a person's informed consent, through a warrant issued by a judicial officer demonstrating probable cause, or under legally recognized exceptions. For cell site simulator devices (which can track or intercept electronic device information), law enforcement must obtain a specific warrant, demonstrate that alternative investigative methods are inadequate, and take steps to limit data collection to only the targeted individuals. The bill mandates that corporations must respond to valid warrants within 14 days, and law enforcement must notify targeted individuals about data collection within 7 days, with provisions for delaying notification in cases of potential adverse results. Additionally, the bill requires annual reporting on warrant usage and ensures that information obtained outside these guidelines cannot be used in legal proceedings. The legislation applies to all state and local law enforcement agencies operating in Massachusetts, whether in standalone or collaborative operations.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2027