Bill > H2687

This bill aims to enhance privacy protections and regulate the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of personal and protected information by criminal intelligence systems in Massachusetts. It introduces several key definitions, including "Commonwealth fusion center" (a state police intelligence entity) and "criminal intelligence information" (data about individuals suspected of criminal activity). The bill establishes strict guidelines for law enforcement agencies and intelligence systems, requiring them to: conduct annual internal audits; obtain written authorization before investigating or sharing protected information; review and destroy outdated or irrelevant information every five years; and limit the collection of information about individuals' political, religious, or social views unless directly related to a criminal investigation. The legislation mandates transparency by requiring public disclosure of privacy oversight committee members, making training manuals accessible, and allowing individuals to access their own personal data. It also creates enforcement mechanisms, including the ability for the office of the inspector general to impose monetary penalties up to $500 for violations and allowing individuals to seek legal relief if their privacy rights are breached. Additionally, the bill requires an independent audit of suspicious activity reports to ensure compliance with federal guidelines and provides potential consequences for agencies that retain non-compliant records.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2687