Bill

Bill > H1255


MA H1255

MA H1255
To protect the privacy of 911 callers


summary

Introduced
01/20/2015
In Committee
01/20/2015
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
07/31/2016

Introduced Session

189th General Court

Bill Summary

Relative to audio recordings and written transcripts of phone calls made to the 911 emergency system. The Judiciary.

AI Summary

This bill, concerning audio recordings and written transcripts of calls made to the 911 emergency system in Massachusetts, establishes that the audio recording of a 911 call is considered private data for the individual making the call, meaning it's not publicly accessible. However, a written transcript of that same call is considered public information and can be requested, with the requester responsible for the actual cost of transcription and any other preparation fees. While the audio recording itself cannot be released without the caller's written consent or a court order that finds public interest outweighs individual privacy, it can be shared with law enforcement agencies for investigations and used for public safety and emergency medical services training. Importantly, this restriction on releasing audio recordings does not apply to law enforcement personnel investigating a case where the 911 call is relevant.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (12)

Last Action

Accompanied a study order, see H4624 (on 09/22/2016)

bill text


bill summary

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bill summary

Document Type Source Location Created
State Bill Page https://malegislature.gov/Bills/189/House/H1255 11/24/2016
State Bill Page https://malegislature.gov/Bills/189/H1255 03/11/2015
Bill https://malegislature.gov/Bills/189/H1255.pdf 03/11/2015
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