SD 1356 Massachusetts Senate · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act to remove collateral consequences and protect the presumption of innocence

This bill modifies Massachusetts law to reduce barriers for people with unconvicted or pending criminal charges. It requires automatic sealing of records for offenses that didn't result in conviction (removing waiting periods and court petitions), adds a written notice about the presumption of innocence when sharing such records, and ensures juveniles' records are sealed automatically without requiring them to file requests. The changes directly affect individuals charged but not convicted, including juveniles, by streamlining access to sealed records without court orders. Key provisions include reducing the number of offenses triggering collateral consequences and eliminating requirements for individuals to petition for record sealing.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor