MA H4064

Replaces Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 268, Section 13B with a revised witness intimidation statute that defines "intimidation" as explicit or implicit threats, physical force, bribes, extortion, or blackmail intended to cause fear of injury or property damage and influence testimony

Creates four categories of witness intimidation offenses: preventing testimony or attendance at proceedings, discouraging crime reporting to law enforcement, influencing false testimony through bribes or extortion, and retaliating against witnesses who have testified

Establishes tiered penalties: violations involving physical force carry up to 10 years in state prison and/or fines up to $25,000; violations involving threats, bribes, or extortion carry up to 2½ years in jail and/or fines up to $5,000

Requires that intimidation intent must be communicated by the accused through words or actions; a witness's perception of intimidation alone is insufficient to establish the crime

Exempts First Amendment-protected speech including criticism of public officials and commentary on public matters, and requires the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission to train law enforcement on proper application of the statute