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Bill

HD 750

An Act relative to Mass Port police officers

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

Legislation establishing or modifying the legal authority and operational procedures for Massachusetts Port Authority police officers at ports and airports.

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Bill Summary · HD 750

Legislative bill overview

HD 750 would establish or modify the authority, jurisdiction, and operational procedures for Massachusetts Port Authority (Mass Port) police officers. The bill specifically addresses the legal framework governing how these officers enforce law and maintain security across port facilities, including airports and seaports under Mass Port jurisdiction.

Why is this important

Mass Port police operate in critical transportation infrastructure serving millions of travelers and significant cargo operations annually. Clarifying their legal authority and procedures affects both public safety effectiveness and individual rights protections in these high-traffic, security-sensitive environments.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of police powers: Questions about whether the bill expands or contracts Mass Port officers' arrest authority, search powers, and jurisdiction beyond port property boundaries
  • Accountability mechanisms: Concerns about oversight structures, complaint procedures, and whether Mass Port police maintain equivalent accountability standards to municipal police departments
  • Operational jurisdiction: Potential friction with local police departments regarding overlapping authority at port perimeters and how incidents are handled when multiple agencies have potential jurisdiction

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

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