Budget Amendment ID: FY2014-S3-442

EPS 442

Commission to Study the Effectiveness of a Drug Dealer Registry in the Commonwealth

Messrs. Ross, Tarr and Knapik moved that the proposed new text be amended by adding the following new section:-

“SECTION XX. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, a commission shall be established to study the effectiveness of a statewide registry of persons convicted for knowingly or intentionally manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, or possessing with the intent to distribute a controlled substance as defined by section 31 of chapter 94C of the General Laws, for use by the general public. The goal of the commission shall be to review current policies and methods of tracking such convicted persons, the role of such convicted persons in other crimes, and to examine the potential impacts to public safety of a statewide registry, accessible by the public. The commission shall make a full report to the legislature with recommendations for legislation to create a registry of those convicted for knowingly or intentionally distributing or dispensing controlled substances, or improve the tracking of known persons who knowingly or intentionally distribute or dispense controlled substances. The commission shall consist of the secretary of public safety and security, or his designee; the commissioner of the department of public safety, or his designee; the superintendent of the state police, or his designee; 2 members of the house of representatives that are chosen by the speaker; the house minority leader, or designee; 2 members of the senate, chosen by the senate president; the senate minority leader, or designee; and 1 member chosen by the governor. Said commission shall determine the scope of the crime that may dictate who shall be included on the registry and what information shall be included on the registry. Said commission shall submit said report back to the legislature with findings and recommendations for legislation on or before December 31, 2013."