An Act banning the use of tear gas against civilians
This bill prohibits law enforcement officers in Massachusetts from using tear gas or other chemical weapons against civilians. It requires police departments to communicate with organizers of planned mass demonstrations to discuss plans for avoiding conflict and de-escalating tensions. The legislation also mandates that officers must attempt de-escalation tactics before using rubber pellets or deploying dogs, and it requires agencies to file reports detailing their efforts to prevent disorder and justify any force used.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Apr 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action May 13, 2024
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
8
Key actions
3
Committee
1
Apr 25, 2024
House · Passed
House concurred
Apr 4, 2024
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 16, 2023
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 16, 2023
Senate · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Becca Rausch
DDemocratic
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