S 1581 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

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