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HD 3039

An Act ensuring confidentiality for emergency service providers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sally Kerans and 1 co-sponsor

Bill restricts public access to emergency workers' personal information to enhance safety from potential harassment and violence while limiting government transparency.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 3039

Legislative bill overview

HD 3039 proposes to establish confidentiality protections for emergency service providers (firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians) regarding certain personal information. The bill aims to shield these workers' residential addresses, phone numbers, and other identifying details from public disclosure through public records requests and similar mechanisms.

Why is this important

Emergency service providers face potential safety risks, including harassment, stalking, and violence from individuals they've encountered during calls. Confidentiality protections could reduce these workplace safety hazards. However, this must be balanced against the public's traditional right to access government employee information and potential concerns about accountability and transparency.

Potential points of contention

  • Public records access vs. privacy: Restricts information traditionally available under Massachusetts public records laws, potentially limiting transparency and public oversight of government employees
  • Scope and definition: Unclear which specific information qualifies for protection and whether protections extend to off-duty conduct or only job-related disclosures
  • Implementation challenges: May create administrative burdens for agencies determining what information to withhold and could lead to inconsistent application across departments

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

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