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Bill

H 2737

An Act relative to emergency response in an active shooter or hostile event situation

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Xiarhos

Massachusetts bill establishing emergency response protocols and coordination standards for active shooter and hostile event situations in the state.

Accompanied a study order, see H5254 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 2737

Legislative bill overview

H 2737 establishes protocols and requirements for emergency response procedures during active shooter or hostile event situations in Massachusetts. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Steve Xiarhos, was referred to the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee and has a hearing scheduled for May 7, 2025. The specific provisions are not detailed in the available information, but the bill addresses how first responders and institutions should coordinate and respond to such emergencies.

Why is this important

Active shooter and hostile event responses directly affect public safety outcomes, emergency preparedness, and the coordination between law enforcement, emergency services, and institutional security. Clear protocols can reduce response times and potentially save lives, while also establishing standards across municipalities that may currently have inconsistent procedures. This is particularly significant given the frequency of such incidents nationwide and the need for coordinated, evidence-based response strategies.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authority and responsibility: Questions about whether protocols place excessive burden on schools, businesses, or other institutions versus law enforcement
  • Resource allocation: Concerns about implementation costs for training, equipment, and infrastructure updates required to meet new standards
  • Privacy and security measures: Debate over surveillance, threat assessment databases, or other monitoring mechanisms that might accompany emergency response protocols

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

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