Massachusetts House Bill H4370

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/11/25
• Refer: 8/11/25

Caption

Concerning furnishing transcripts of notes and fees

Impact

The bill reflects a significant change in how court transcripts are provided and priced. By mandating the use of an open-source format for electronic reproductions, H4370 promotes accessibility and transparency in the judicial process, ensuring that such materials can be easily shared and utilized by all parties involved. This move is particularly relevant for low-income individuals who seek access to legal documentation, as the bill offers provisions for these individuals to obtain transcripts at a substantially lower cost, potentially increasing fair access to justice.

Summary

House Bill H4370 aims to amend Chapter 221 of the General Laws concerning the furnishing of transcripts of trial notes and audio recordings. The primary intention of this legislation is to standardize the fees associated with obtaining transcripts and to set clear procedures for how these materials are to be accessed by parties involved in legal proceedings. In particular, it establishes a fee structure that charges $4.50 per page for original transcripts and $1.50 per page for copies, while providing provisions for indigent parties to receive transcripts at reduced rates.

Contention

While supporters of H4370 argue that the bill will enhance access to justice by making transcripts more affordable and accessible, there are concerns regarding the financial implications for the judicial system. Some stakeholders express worries that the reduced fees for indigent parties might lead to a strain on judicial resources if the volume of requested transcripts increases significantly. Furthermore, the requirement for electronic reproductions may raise questions about whether the current infrastructure is adequately equipped to handle this transition to open-source formats, thus requiring additional resources or training for court staff.