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H 1853

An Act to enhance the availability of immunity to witnesses in the courts of the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jay Livingstone and 1 co-sponsor

H 1853 - An Act to enhance the availability of immunity to witnesses in the courts of the Commonwealth OverviewBill Number: H 1853 Title: An Act to enhance the availability of imm

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1853

H 1853 - An Act to enhance the availability of immunity to witnesses in the courts of the Commonwealth

Overview

Bill Number: H 1853
Title: An Act to enhance the availability of immunity to witnesses in the courts of the Commonwealth
Status: Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to expand the circumstances under which witnesses in court proceedings can be granted immunity from prosecution for their testimony. The legislation aims to encourage more individuals to come forward and provide evidence in criminal and civil cases by offering them greater legal protections.

Key Provisions

  • Allows a judge to grant immunity to a witness if their testimony is deemed critical to the case and they would otherwise refuse to testify due to the risk of self-incrimination
  • Expands the types of cases where immunity can be granted beyond just criminal proceedings to include certain civil and administrative hearings
  • Requires the prosecutor to request immunity for a witness and demonstrate the necessity and relevance of their testimony
  • Specifies that granted immunity covers the witness's testimony and any evidence or information directly derived from it
  • Prohibits the use of immunized testimony against the witness in any future criminal prosecution

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Witnesses in court proceedings, who would have an increased ability to obtain immunity and testify without fear of self-incrimination
  • Prosecutors, who would have a new tool to compel testimony in cases where a witness is reluctant to cooperate
  • Defendants in criminal cases, who may benefit from the testimony of witnesses who are granted immunity
  • The general public, as the bill aims to make the judicial process more effective by encouraging witness participation

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill is currently scheduled for a public hearing on September 9, 2025, where lawmakers and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide input and feedback. If the bill passes the hearing stage, it will then proceed through the normal legislative process, including potential amendments, committee votes, and floor votes in both the state House and Senate. The timeline for final passage and enactment into law is uncertain at this stage.

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

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