An Act to increase the safety of courthouses

This Massachusetts bill increases penalties for individuals who bring firearms into courthouses without specific written permission from court administrators. It directly affects licensed gun owners and other non-law enforcement personnel by clarifying that carrying a loaded or unloaded weapon in a courthouse is illegal without authorization. The law establishes two tiers of punishment: a fine or up to one year in jail for unauthorized possession, and up to five years in state prison or a fine of up to $5,000 for those who bring a weapon with the intent to use it during a crime. Additionally, the bill requires courts to post notices at public entrances informing visitors of these new restrictions.