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H 1839

An Act relative to the penalty for disorderly persons

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David Linsky

Massachusetts bill H 1839 modifies criminal penalties for disorderly persons charges, pending Judiciary Committee review and May 6 hearing.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1839

Legislative bill overview

H 1839 modifies penalties associated with disorderly persons charges in Massachusetts. The bill has been referred to the Judiciary Committee and is scheduled for a hearing on May 6, 2025. The specific penalty changes are not detailed in the legislative action history provided.

Why is this important

Disorderly persons charges are commonly used in criminal law enforcement and can have significant consequences for individuals, affecting employment, housing, and other opportunities. Changes to penalties directly impact how the criminal justice system addresses these offenses and may reflect shifts in policy regarding public order enforcement.

Potential points of contention

  • Severity of penalties: Whether proposed changes increase or decrease penalties, stakeholders will likely debate whether they appropriately balance public safety with proportional punishment
  • Enforcement disparities: Questions about whether disorderly persons charges are applied equitably across different communities and demographic groups
  • Definition clarity: Concerns about how "disorderly" behavior is defined and whether overly broad language could lead to subjective enforcement

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

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