S 1478 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to military grade controlled property

This bill amends Massachusetts state law to improve transparency and oversight regarding the acquisition of military-grade equipment by law enforcement agencies. It requires state and local police, as well as other authorized entities, to obtain approval from their respective department secretaries before receiving such property from federal sources. Additionally, the legislation mandates that agencies provide detailed information to the General Court about the types of equipment available, associated costs, and the terms of any federal grants used for these acquisitions. By clarifying definitions and adding reporting requirements, the bill aims to ensure that the public and legislators have a clear understanding of how these resources are obtained and utilized.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Apr 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action May 13, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
8
Key actions
3
Committee
1
Apr 25, 2024
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Apr 4, 2024
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security
upper
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors

Sponsors