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S 1741

An Act relative to police interactions with persons on the autism spectrum

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 17 co-sponsors

Massachusetts law would require police officers to receive training on recognizing and de-escalating interactions with autistic individuals to reduce use of force and improve public safety outcomes.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1741

Legislative bill overview

S 1741 requires Massachusetts law enforcement agencies to develop and implement training protocols for police officers on recognizing and appropriately responding to interactions with individuals on the autism spectrum. The bill mandates specific training content, establishes standards for de-escalation techniques tailored to autistic individuals, and may include certification requirements for officers completing the training.

Why is this important

Autistic individuals face disproportionate risks during police encounters due to communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral traits that officers may misinterpret as non-compliance or threat. Specialized training can reduce unnecessary arrests, use-of-force incidents, injuries, and fatalities while improving outcomes for both autistic individuals and officers. This addresses a documented public safety gap affecting a vulnerable population.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and implementation costs: Developing, delivering, and maintaining statewide training for all law enforcement requires significant budget allocation, which may compete with other police reform priorities or face fiscal constraints
  • Training efficacy and enforcement: Questions remain about whether training alone changes officer behavior in high-stress situations, and what mechanisms will ensure compliance and accountability across diverse departments
  • Scope and definition concerns: Determining which autism spectrum presentations trigger recognition, potential over-application to non-autistic individuals with similar traits, and whether training creates liability issues for departments

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

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