Bill > H2497

This bill establishes a statewide gun offender registry in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. The bill creates a centralized gun offender registry maintained by the Gun Offender Registry Board, which will include information such as the offender's name, address, criminal history, and risk level. 2. All individuals convicted of a "gun offense" (unlawful use or possession of a firearm) must register with the board and provide regular updates on their address and employment. 3. The board will classify offenders into three risk levels - low, moderate, and high - and determine the level of public notification required for each. Higher-risk offenders will have their information made publicly available. 4. Offenders must comply with registration requirements or face criminal penalties. The bill also prohibits misuse of the registry information to harass or discriminate against offenders. 5. The board will have the authority to hold hearings and make determinations about an offender's duty to register and risk level classification, with the ability for offenders to appeal these decisions through the courts. 6. The bill establishes a $75 annual registration fee for offenders, which can be waived in cases of undue hardship. Overall, this legislation aims to create a comprehensive statewide database and monitoring system for individuals convicted of gun-related crimes in Massachusetts.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H2497