H4637

Relative to civil rights and technology

Introduced·10/23/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H4637 regulates the use of robotic devices by law enforcement and civilians, establishing penalties and civil rights protections.

Massachusetts H4637 establishes regulations on the use of robotic devices by both law enforcement and civilians. It mandates that law enforcement agencies obtain a warrant before deploying robotic devices for surveillance or location tracking, and requires them to document each use. Civilians are prohibited from using robotic devices to threaten, harass, or physically restrain others. The bill outlines penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines. It also allows individuals to bring civil actions for damages and equitable relief against violators.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

May 20

House

Committee recommended ought to pass with an amendment, substituting therefor a bill with the same title, see H5444

May 20

House

Referred to the committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling with the amendment pending

May 20

House

Committee reported that the matter be placed in the Orders of the Day for the next sitting for a second reading with the amendment pending