Massachusetts S1758 bans the use of tear gas against civilians by law enforcement.

Massachusetts S1758 prohibits law enforcement officers from discharging or ordering the discharge of tear gas or any other chemical weapon against civilians. The bill also restricts the use of rubber pellets from a propulsion device and the release of dogs to control or influence a person’s behavior, except when de-escalation tactics have failed or are not feasible and the measures are necessary to prevent imminent harm. The bill requires the department to communicate with organizers of planned mass demonstrations to discuss logistical plans and de-escalation strategies.

Massachusetts S1758 bans the use of tear gas against civilians by law enforcement.

Massachusetts S1758 prohibits law enforcement officers from discharging or ordering the discharge of tear gas or any other chemical weapon against civilians. The bill also restricts the use of rubber pellets from a propulsion device and the release of dogs to control or influence a person’s behavior, except when de-escalation tactics have failed or are not feasible and the measures are necessary to prevent imminent harm. The bill requires the department to communicate with organizers of planned mass demonstrations to discuss logistical plans and de-escalation strategies.