HD 5662 requires the Massachusetts District Attorneys Association to submit an annual report detailing criminal prosecution data for calendar year 2025. The report must include specific categories: juvenile cases, adult cases, appeals, and cases reviewed. This procedural bill directly affects the District Attorneys Association, mandating they compile and submit this workload data. It does not change laws or policies, but establishes a reporting requirement for transparency. The bill was placed on file in February 2026 and has no further action noted.
Senate, January 22, 2026 -- The committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1707) of Patricia D. Jehlen for legislation to remove barriers to medical parole; and (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1722) of Liz Miranda, Joanne M. Comerford, Adam Gomez and Patricia D. Jehlen for legislation to grant elder and medical parole, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2857).
By Representative Frost of Auburn (by request), a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Aspen Boss relative to penalties for non-consensual image sharing and providing supportive victim services. The Judiciary.
This bill limits school resource officers' (SROs) roles in schools by prohibiting them from handling routine discipline or replacing counselors. It requires SROs to only intervene in serious criminal incidents (like physical harm, malicious property damage, or theft of significant value) and mandates de-escalation training. Schools must annually report costs, mental health budgets, and detailed data on student interactions with SROs (including arrests and referrals), with the education department collecting and publishing this data. The bill also creates grants to help schools adopt non-law enforcement safety practices, such as conflict resolution and culturally affirming approaches.
H 5050 is primarily an appropriations bill that allocates additional funding for state government operations in fiscal year 2026, including $300 million for group insurance premiums and $31 million for correctional facility operations. Its most significant policy change (Section 5) creates new restrictions on civil immigration enforcement at child care facilities: it prohibits law enforcement from entering licensed child care centers, family child care homes, or school-aged programs without a judicial warrant and prior approval from the facility director. The bill also requires these facilities to establish policies for handling immigration enforcement interactions, including verifying warrants and designating staff to manage such encounters. These provisions directly affect child care providers and law enforcement agencies operating near early childhood facilities.
By Ms. Edwards, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2975) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Lydia Edwards, Patricia D. Jehlen, Joanne M. Comerford, Rebecca L. Rausch and other members of the General Court for legislation to protect access to justice. The Judiciary.
H 5126 would require courts to assess probationers for substance use disorders and order treatment instead of jail time for relapse. It mandates individualized treatment plans using licensed providers or evidence-based practices (like medication-assisted therapy), with courts reviewing provider reports on progress. Probationers who complete treatment but relapse may receive additional treatment rather than incarceration. The bill preserves courts' authority to use other probation sanctions for public safety while shifting focus from punishment to treatment for substance use issues.
By Ms. Rausch, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Rebecca L. Rausch for legislation to de-ICE Massachusetts law enforcement. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
By Mr. Brownsberger, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2976) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of William N. Brownsberger, Cindy F. Friedman, Pavel M. Payano, Cynthia Stone Creem and other members of the Senate for legislation relative to violations of the United States Constitution under color of law. The Judiciary.
H 5002, titled "An Act to Restore a Sensible Marijuana Policy," legalizes small-scale marijuana possession for adults while reforming related laws. It makes possession of 1 ounce or less by people aged 21+ a non-punishable civil matter, and possession of 1-2 ounces subject only to a $100 civil penalty (no criminal charges). For those under 21, possession of up to 2 ounces requires completion of a drug awareness program to avoid increased penalties, and prohibits denial of benefits like housing or financial aid based on minor possession. The bill repeals outdated chapters (94G and 64N) and creates a Cannabis Control Commission to oversee implementation.
