MA
Massachusetts House Bill H1646
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
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Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1646

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

To modify the rules for taking depositions outside the Commonwealth and to adopt the uniform interstate depositions and discovery act

Impact

The proposed bill primarily amends Chapter 223A of the General Laws, establishing clear definitions for terms such as 'foreign action', 'foreign jurisdiction', and 'foreign subpoena'. Such definitions are essential for understanding the parameters within which Massachusetts courts will operate when dealing with out-of-state subpoenas. The statute addresses practical aspects such as submission processes for these subpoenas, pricing for filing fees, and the responsibilities of clerks of court in issuing local versions of out-of-state subpoenas, which will lead to enhanced clarity on procedural steps for legal practitioners.

Summary

House Bill H1646, aimed at modifying the rules for taking depositions outside the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, seeks to adopt the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act. This legislative proposal is engineered to streamline the process for obtaining depositions and implementing subpoenas issued by courts from other states within Massachusetts. By introducing these changes, the bill aims to improve legal collaboration across state lines, thereby facilitating more efficient legal processes in cases involving multiple jurisdictions.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote uniformity and efficiency, potential points of contention may arise regarding the balance of power between state and foreign jurisdictions. Critics might raise concerns about the implications for attorney-client confidentiality and the enforcement of foreign subpoenas within Massachusetts. Further discourse will likely center around ensuring that adopting these procedures does not dilute the protections offered under local law against unwarranted subpoenas from outside states, reflecting a blend of legal interests that need thorough consideration during legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

MA H5056

Replaced by To modify the rules for taking depositions outside the Commonwealth and to adopt the uniform interstate depositions and discovery act

Previously Filed As

MA H5056

To modify the rules for taking depositions outside the Commonwealth and to adopt the uniform interstate depositions and discovery act

MA H1765

Establishing the uniform interstate depositions and discovery act

MA HB1711

Establishes the "Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act"

MA SB1386

Establishes the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act

MA HB1489

Relative to interstate depositions and discovery.

MA H1857

Establishing the Massachusetts Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act

MA HB128

Establishes the "Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act"

MA SB1180

Modifies provisions relating to civil procedure, including the collateral source rule, interstate depositions and discovery, determinations of fault, references to damages, and disclosure requirements

MA AB2290

Civil discovery: oral depositions: transcriptions.

MA HF2639

A bill for an act relating to limitations on discovery depositions involving minor victims.(Formerly HF 2135.)

Similar Bills

MA H1765

Establishing the uniform interstate depositions and discovery act

MA H1857

Establishing the Massachusetts Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act

MA H5056

To modify the rules for taking depositions outside the Commonwealth and to adopt the uniform interstate depositions and discovery act

PA HB1966

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA SB881

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA HB1642

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA SB942

Providing for auditor qualifications for the Department of the Auditor General, for new department employees, for current department employees, for employee certification, for forensic audits, for fraud audits and for committee standards.

PA SB785

Establishing cause of action for antitrust conduct, for indirect purchaser recovery under State antitrust laws and for premerger notice of health care mergers and transactions; and imposing penalties.