H2621 (2026): Critical Incident Leave for Officers Involved in Firearm Discharges

What the Bill Would Do

House Bill 2621 would create a statutory framework for "Critical Incident Leave" — mandatory paid administrative leave for law enforcement officers involved in incidents where they discharge their firearms^[1]. The bill addresses a gap in Massachusetts law: while most police departments have internal policies governing officer-involved shootings, there is no statewide statutory standard for how officers are treated in the immediate aftermath of a firearm discharge incident.

The bill would establish minimum leave periods, require access to mental health resources, and set procedures for when officers can return to active duty. It would apply to all sworn law enforcement officers in the Commonwealth, including municipal police, state police, and transit police.

Current Status

H2621 has been read a second time and ordered to a third reading as of December 4, 2025^[2]. This makes it the most advanced firearms-related bill in the 194th General Court. A third reading is the final step before a floor vote in the House. If it passes the House, it would move to the Senate for consideration.

What to Watch

The bill enjoys broad support because it addresses officer welfare rather than restricting or expanding firearm rights. The key questions are whether the leave period will be standardized across all departments, whether it will include mandatory counseling requirements, and how the cost will be allocated between municipalities and the state. Given its advanced position in the legislative process, H2621 has the strongest chance of any firearms-related bill to become law this session.