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H 1616

An Act increasing penalties for certain violent acts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tackey Chan

H.1616 would raise maximum penalties for certain violent acts under MA GL ch.265, sec.15D: from 5 to 10 years and from 10 to 15 years, increasing sentences upon conviction.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1616

Summary of H.1616: An Act increasing penalties for certain violent acts

Purpose and intent

H.1616, titled An Act increasing penalties for certain violent acts, seeks to raise statutory penalties for offenses described in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 15D. The bill is designed to increase the duration of penalties applicable to “certain violent acts,” effectively expanding the maximum time a defendant could face for these offenses.

Key provisions

  • Section 1: Amends Section 15D of Chapter 265, updating the line that currently states a penalty of “5 years.” The bill replaces this with “10 years.”
  • Section 2: Further amends Section 15D, updating the line that currently states a penalty of “10 years.” The bill replaces this with “15 years.”

In short, the bill increases the first tier from 5 to 10 years and the second tier from 10 to 15 years, thereby raising the potential penalties for the covered violent acts under Section 15D.

Who/what would be affected

  • Offenders convicted of certain violent acts governed by Section 15D of Chapter 265.
  • The judiciary, prosecutors, and the Department of Corrections, which administer sentencing, alignment of sentences, and inmate populations.
  • Defendants facing charges under these provisions would be subject to higher maximum penalties if enacted.

Procedural and timeline details

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Primary sponsors: Tackey Chan (Quincy) and Michael Morrissey (2nd Norfolk District)
  • Legislative status:
    • Referred to the Judiciary Committee on February 27, 2025
    • Senate concurred on February 27, 2025
  • House Docket: No. 1616; House Filed No. 3992
  • Upcoming action: A hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room A-2
  • Related and transitional note: HD 3992 is referenced as replacing the filed version; the bill is part of the 194th General Court (2025-2026).

Potential impacts and considerations

  • If enacted, certain violent offenses would carry higher maximum penalties, potentially affecting sentencing outcomes, prison populations, and related costs.
  • The change could influence prosecutorial charging decisions and defense strategy for cases falling under Section 15D.
  • As with penalty-enhancement measures, the bill’s impact would depend on how courts interpret the amended thresholds and whether any additional clarifying language accompanies future amendments or implementing regulations.

This summary captures the bill’s core changes, who is affected, and the procedural pathway and timeline for H.1616.

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

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