summary
Introduced
02/27/2025
02/27/2025
In Committee
02/27/2025
02/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
194th General Court
Bill Summary
Relative to the indemnification of certain persons from civil proceedings for injuries or deaths of persons unlawfully entering their dwelling. The Judiciary.
AI Summary
This bill modifies Section 8A of Chapter 278 of the Massachusetts General Laws to provide additional legal protection for homeowners who defend themselves against intruders. Specifically, the bill states that if a person is found not guilty in a criminal trial for actions taken to protect their dwelling from an unlawful intruder, they cannot be subsequently sued in civil court for injuries or death caused to that intruder during the incident. This provision effectively shields homeowners from civil liability when they are legally determined to have acted appropriately in defending their home against someone who has entered unlawfully. The bill appears to strengthen existing legal protections for property owners by creating an explicit legal barrier to civil lawsuits following a criminal acquittal related to home defense.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order (on 10/20/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1905 |
| BillText | https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1905.pdf |
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