An Act to enhance safety and security in courthouses

HD 1639 strengthens penalties for violence and threats against courthouse personnel and proceedings in Massachusetts. It increases maximum penalties for assaulting courthouse property during sessions (up to 3 years in state prison or $25,000 fine), disrupting court sessions (up to 3 years in prison or $5,000 fine), and threatening judges or court staff (up to 3 years in prison or $5,000 fine). The bill directly affects court staff, including judges, clerks, probation officers, and interpreters, by raising legal consequences for threats or violence related to their official duties. These changes amend existing laws in Chapters 265, 268, and 275 of the Massachusetts General Laws.