Relative to locating missing persons via mobile data (Kelsey's Bill)
By amending Chapter 6A of the General Laws, this bill introduces a new section that outlines the responsibilities of wireless carriers and in-vehicle security service providers in cooperating with law enforcement. It emphasizes that these entities must submit their emergency contact information to a designated state office to facilitate such requests, thus creating a structured system for law enforcement to retrieve vital information swiftly. This change is expected to significantly enhance the state's capability to respond to emergencies involving missing persons.
House Bill 1519, formally known as 'An Act relative to locating missing persons via mobile data', aims to enhance law enforcement's ability to locate missing individuals through immediate access to location data from mobile telecommunications providers. The bill mandates that upon request from law enforcement, wireless telecommunications carriers must provide real-time location information for devices used by missing persons or in situations that pose a risk of death or serious physical harm. This measure is designed to streamline the response in emergencies and ensure that critical data is accessible when every second counts.
While the bill is generally supported as a necessary tool for public safety, it raises certain concerns regarding privacy and the potential misuse of location data. Opponents may argue that unrestricted access to personal location data could infringe on individual privacy rights. Moreover, the legislation does offer immunity to telecommunications providers acting in good faith, which may create debate around accountability in situations where data access could lead to errors or misinterpretations that adversely affect individuals involved in an investigation.
The bill also tasks the executive office of public safety and security with maintaining a database of emergency contact information for all telecommunications carriers, ensuring that this information is readily available to public safety agencies. Regulations for administering and enforcing these provisions are required to be finalized by December 31, 2023, which will provide the framework within which law enforcement can operate under the new statute.