H 1759 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act establishing medical civil rights

This bill amends Massachusetts law to guarantee that anyone in police custody or contact who is experiencing a medical emergency or is medically unstable must receive emergency medical services. It defines specific terms like "emergency medical condition" and "medically unstable" to clarify when care is required and lists various law enforcement agencies and officers covered by the rule. Under the new provisions, officers are legally required to immediately call for medical help if a person in their custody reports health issues or appears to be deteriorating. The legislation directly affects law enforcement personnel and the individuals they encounter, ensuring that medical needs are addressed regardless of the person's legal status.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Apr 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Jul 22, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

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

Actions timeline

Total actions
6
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Apr 1, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors