Bill > H2121

This bill amends Chapter 94C of the General Laws by introducing a new section, 32L, which defines a "hidden compartment" as any aftermarket compartment, whether operated electronically, mechanically, or manually, installed in or attached to a conveyance (like an aircraft, vehicle, or vessel), or a factory-designed void that has been altered to function as such. The bill establishes penalties for possessing, using, or controlling a conveyance with a hidden compartment intended to store or transport controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, proceeds from illegal drug transactions, or weapons, with imprisonment ranging from a mandatory minimum of 2 years up to 5 years in state prison, or up to 2.5 years in the house of correction, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenses. It also penalizes the design, construction, or installation of such hidden compartments with similar prison terms and mandatory minimums. Furthermore, any conveyance containing a hidden compartment, along with its contents, will be subject to seizure, and the presence of a hidden compartment will be considered strong evidence that the conveyance was used for illegal drug activities, with the removal of the compartment not preventing forfeiture.