Bill > S1252

This bill amends existing Massachusetts law, specifically Section 10 of Chapter 269, to redefine and expand the list of prohibited dangerous weapons and to clarify penalties for their possession. It introduces definitions for various weapons, including "ballistic knife" (a knife that shoots its blade), "billy club" (a striking instrument like a nightstick), "blackjack" (a weighted striking instrument), "brass knuckles" (finger guards for striking), "butterfly knife" (a folding knife that opens with wrist action), "dagger" (a bladed weapon), "disguised knife" (a knife made to look like an everyday object), "electrical weapon" (like a taser), "knife" (broadly defined to include swords and machetes), "leaded gloves" (gloves with added weight for striking), "nunchaku" (connected sticks for striking), "switchblade knife" (a knife with an automatic blade release), "throwing star" (a sharp, throwable weapon), and "undetectable knife" (a knife not detectable by metal detectors). The bill then outlines penalties for carrying these weapons, including increased mandatory minimum sentences for individuals with prior felony convictions and significantly harsher penalties, including extended prison terms, for those possessing these weapons during the commission of a felony. It also includes exceptions for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and authorized suppliers. Additionally, a minor technical amendment is made to cross-reference a different subsection within the same law.