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H 1903

An Act addressing racial disparity in jury selection

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Moran

Massachusetts bill reforming jury selection procedures to reduce racial disparities in courtroom representation and trial outcomes.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1903

Legislative bill overview

H 1903 proposes reforms to Massachusetts jury selection procedures to address racial disparities in jury composition. The bill has been referred to the Judiciary Committee and is currently scheduled for hearings, indicating it remains in the early legislative process.

Why is this important

Jury composition directly affects trial outcomes and public confidence in the criminal justice system. Research consistently shows that underrepresentation of racial minorities on juries can influence verdicts, sentencing, and perceptions of fairness—particularly in cases involving defendants or victims of color. Addressing these disparities is considered essential to fulfilling the constitutional promise of a "jury of one's peers."

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and logistics – Reforming jury selection procedures may require funding for outreach, transportation, childcare assistance, or other measures to increase participation rates among underrepresented communities
  • Effectiveness and specificity – The bill's actual mechanisms for addressing disparity are unclear from available information; critics may question whether proposed reforms meaningfully increase diversity or merely create procedural changes
  • Prosecutorial and defense perspectives – Stakeholders disagree on peremptory challenge reforms, implicit bias jury instructions, and whether certain changes disadvantage either side in criminal or civil proceedings

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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