H1977

Relative to Proportionality in Joint Venture Sentencing

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H1977 amends sentencing laws to allow for resentencing of individuals convicted of murder under joint venture theory.

Massachusetts H1977 amends the state's General Laws to provide for the resentencing of individuals convicted of murder under a joint venture theory. The bill allows for the vacating of a murder conviction and resentencing if the individual was not the principal perpetrator. It mandates that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution to show the petitioner's ineligibility for resentencing. If the prosecution fails to meet this burden, the conviction is vacated, and the petitioner is resentenced.

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Sep 23, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Sep 16, 2025

Joint

Hearing scheduled for 09/23/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2

Sep 16, 2025

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order