An Act repealing the criminalization of blasphemy
This bill seeks to remove the criminal penalties associated with blasphemy from Massachusetts law. By repealing Section 36 of Chapter 272 in the state's General Laws, it would eliminate the specific legal provision that currently allows for prosecution of individuals for insulting religious beliefs or sacred objects. The change directly affects any person who might face criminal charges under this statute, ensuring that such speech is no longer subject to state criminal punishment. The legislation does not create new laws or alter other religious protections, focusing solely on the deletion of this specific offense.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action Oct 10, 2023
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 16, 2023
Senate · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Becca Rausch
DDemocratic
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