Allows neuroscience evidence on fight or flight responses in criminal cases in Massachusetts.
This bill amends Massachusetts law to allow neuroscience evidence regarding fight or flight responses in criminal cases. Neuroscience evidence can be presented to show that a defendant's actions were influenced by involuntary physiological reactions, potentially impairing their ability to control their conduct. The bill also mandates jury instructions on the relationship between neuroscience evidence and criminal liability. Records and reports of examinations related to a defendant's neurological functioning, including assessments of fight or flight responses, are admissible.
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- Core Provisions
- Implementation
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- Legal Framework
- Critical Issues
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