WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 1824

An Act relative to the definition of attempted murder

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick Kearney and 5 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill redefines attempted murder charges, affecting how prosecutors charge and courts sentence violent crime cases with significant criminal liability implications.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 1824

Legislative bill overview

H 1824 proposes to redefine attempted murder in Massachusetts law, though the specific language of the redefinition is not provided in the information available. The bill is currently in the Judiciary Committee after being referred in February 2025, with a hearing scheduled for September 23, 2025. This represents a significant change to how attempted murder is legally defined and prosecuted in the state.

Why is this important

Defining attempted murder is fundamental to criminal law because it determines which actions constitute a serious felony versus lesser charges, directly affecting sentencing, prison time, and criminal records. Changes to this definition can impact prosecutors' charging decisions, defendants' legal exposure, and public safety policy. Any modification to this definition will have ripple effects across the criminal justice system and may affect how courts interpret intent and dangerousness in violent crime cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Threshold for criminal liability: How close must someone come to completing murder before it constitutes "attempted murder"? Stricter definitions may criminalize preparation or planning; looser definitions may expose people to conviction for less culpable conduct.
  • Intent requirements: Whether the definition requires specific intent to kill or allows for other mental states (recklessness, negligence), which significantly affects who can be charged and convicted.
  • Self-defense and proportionality concerns: How the redefinition interacts with existing self-defense laws and whether it might sweep in conduct that was previously considered justified or proportionate.

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

Sign in to ask a question.