MA H1849

Establishes a permanent law revision commission to identify defects, anachronisms, and unconstitutional statutes in Massachusetts law, with members appointed by legislative leadership, the governor, the attorney general, the District Attorneys Association, and the Committee for Public Counsel Services

Repeals Section 34 of Chapter 272 (the "sodomy" law criminalizing consensual sexual conduct) and removes all references to this section throughout related statutes

Replaces Section 35 of Chapter 272 to narrowly define "unnatural and lascivious acts" as lewd acts committed in public with intent or reckless disregard for public exposure, punishable by up to $200 fine and/or 6 months imprisonment

Removes "common night walkers" and "common street walkers" language from disorderly conduct statutes and eliminates related archaic indictment forms

Requires the commission to meet at least 4 times annually and submit reports with legislative recommendations to the clerks of the Senate and House, Ways and Means committees, and Joint Committee on the Judiciary