An Act relative to the reliability of testifying informants “testifying informant legislation”

This Massachusetts bill creates a new legal requirement for prosecutors to document and disclose information about the reliability of witnesses who testify in exchange for benefits like reduced sentences or plea deals. The law mandates that district attorneys and the Attorney General's Office maintain private records detailing the informant's criminal history, any promises made to them, and their past interactions with law enforcement. Additionally, the bill requires these offices to share specific details with the defense before trial, such as the informant's prior inconsistent statements and any other cases where they have testified. If the defense requests it, a judge must hold a hearing where the prosecution must prove the informant's testimony is reliable before it can be used in court.