HD 1346 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to profits from crime

This Massachusetts bill (HD 1346) requires businesses or entities paying a defendant in a criminal case to report the agreement to the Attorney General's Victim Compensation Division within 30 days and post a bond equal to the payment amount. It defines "proceeds of crime" as money or assets gained through a defendant's criminal activity, and mandates that payments must be "substantially related" to the crime (e.g., leveraging notoriety from the crime) to trigger the reporting and bonding requirements. The division notifies victims, holds the bond to potentially cover victim compensation, and allows victims to sue for damages within three years. It directly affects businesses, media, or individuals contracting with defendants, ensuring potential criminal proceeds benefit victims rather than the defendant.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor