H 4832 clarifies contract rules around digital replicas (computer-generated voice or likeness representations) for performers and creators. It makes contract clauses allowing digital replicas to replace in-person work unenforceable after January 1, 2026, if the agreement lacks clear usage details or the individual didn't have proper legal or union representation during negotiation. The bill specifically excludes standard copyright uses like sampling, remixing, or authorized remastering. It directly affects performers signing new contracts involving digital replicas for professional services starting in 2026.
This bill protects the privacy of individuals who call 911 for emergency services in Massachusetts. It designates 911 call audio/video recordings as private data belonging to the caller, meaning the raw recording cannot be publicly released without the caller’s written consent (or a court order balancing public interest against privacy). However, written transcripts of calls become public upon request, with the requester paying transcription costs. The bill permits sharing recordings with law enforcement for investigations or for public safety training, but prohibits unauthorized release in all other cases.
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Public Safety
By Mr. Durant, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Peter J. Durant for legislation to establish the Massachusetts Digital Settlement Sandbox Program. Financial Services.
By Representative Scanlon of North Attleborough, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1988) of Adam J. Scanlon for an investigation by a special commission (including members of the General Court) relative to the privacy of sensitive information in legal documents. The Judiciary.
By Representative Murray of Milford, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3595) of Brian W. Murray and others for legislation to authorize library access to electronic books and digital audiobooks and for an investigation by a special commission (including members of the General Court) relative to challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections. Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development.
By Representative Livingstone of Boston, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 638) of Jay D. Livingstone, Lindsay N. Sabadosa and Adrianne Pusateri Ramos for legislation relative to the privacy of library records. Education.
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Privacy
Senate, November 10, 2025 -- The committee on Senate Rules to whom was referred the Senate Bill addressing challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections (Senate, No. 2330), - reported, in part, a "Bill addressing challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections" (Senate, No. 2710).
By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2330) of Paul R. Feeney and Michael O. Moore for legislation to create a special commission to address challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections. Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development.
By Representative Day of Stoneham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 1643) of Michael S. Day and Jason M. Lewis relative to audio recordings and written transcripts of phone calls made to the 911 emergency system. The Judiciary.
H 4651 creates the Open Educational Resource (OER) Trust Fund to reduce college textbook costs for students at Massachusetts public institutions. The fund will support the development and distribution of free, high-quality digital textbooks and learning materials, replacing expensive commercial course materials. It requires the Department of Higher Education to administer the fund, review private donations to prevent restrictions, and mandate competitive grants for OER adoption. Public colleges must inform students about OER courses, and the department must annually report on fund usage and savings to the legislature. This directly affects students by lowering course material expenses, a major factor in college affordability.
