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SD 2989

An Act enhancing safety and security for candidates and professionals

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Brian Ashe and 4 co-sponsors

Bill SD 2989 enhances privacy for candidates and election professionals by limiting public disclosure of personal information, ensuring safer electoral processes in Massachusetts.

Referred to the committee on Election Laws
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 2989

Summary of Bill SD 2989: An Act Enhancing Safety and Security for Candidates and Professionals

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SD 2989
- Title: An Act enhancing safety and security for candidates and professionals
- Status: Referred to the committee on Election Laws
- Introduced: June 23, 2025
- Classification: Proposed bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill SD 2989 is to enhance the safety and security of candidates for public office and professionals involved in the electoral process. The bill is classified as an emergency law, indicating that its immediate implementation is deemed necessary to preserve public safety.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to existing laws, particularly in Chapter 53 and Chapter 54 of the General Laws of Massachusetts. Key changes include:

  1. Modification of Personal Information Disclosure:

    • The bill amends the definition of personal information for elected officials by replacing "home address, personal email address and home telephone number" with "residential or home-based office address, personal email address and home, home-based office or personal mobile telephone number."

  2. Changes to Address Reporting:

    • The term "residences" is replaced with "municipalities of residence" in various sections, thereby reducing the specificity of address information required from candidates.
    • The Secretary of State will collect candidates' residential addresses through alternate means, ensuring that this information is maintained confidentially.

  3. Clarification of Candidate Information:

    • Amendments specify that the name of each candidate for county office will include the city or town of residence, while candidates for city or town office will include their ward or precinct.

  4. General Privacy Enhancements:

    • The bill aims to protect the personal information of candidates and professionals by limiting the disclosure of specific address details in public records.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Candidates for Public Office: Individuals running for election will benefit from enhanced privacy protections regarding their personal information.
- Election Professionals: Those involved in the electoral process, including election officials and campaign staff, will also see improved safety measures.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on June 23, 2025, and has been referred to the committee on Election Laws for further consideration.
  • The emergency nature of the bill suggests that it may be prioritized for discussion and potential passage to ensure timely implementation.

Conclusion

Bill SD 2989 represents a significant step towards improving the safety and security of candidates and professionals in the electoral process. By amending existing laws to enhance privacy protections, the bill aims to create a safer environment for those involved in public service and elections in Massachusetts.

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

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