In Massachusetts, it is legal to purchase, use, and carry a Taser or any other type of stun gun, but a firearms license is required. As a result, Massachusetts has some of the strictest stun gun and Taser laws in the country. Previously, the state banned civilians from possessing stun devices, but this ban was deemed unconstitutional by the state's highest court in 2018. As a result, the state changed its laws to include stun devices under the legal definition of firearms, requiring citizens to meet the licensing and other regulations for gun possession and use.

Massachusetts law considers all types of stun devices equal, whether they deliver an electric shock on direct contact or fire darts attached to wires that carry an electrical charge (such as Tasers). Prior to 2018, stun devices were limited to law enforcement use only. However, the state's ban on civilian possession was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts, leading to regulations requiring a license for stun gun use by civilians. Citizens in the state may purchase and carry stun devices if they have a firearms license, as long as the electronic device is in the shape of a gun (like some Tasers). Covert electronic weapons that resemble objects like pens or cell phones are explicitly banned.

Like other firearms, stun device licenses in Massachusetts are restricted for certain individuals, including those who are under 21, have a prior felony conviction, are subject to domestic violence protection orders, or are under an "extreme risk protection order" (ERPO). Before obtaining a stun gun license, a background check is required. If an ERPO is in place, the license must be surrendered, along with any stun guns in the individual's possession.

In response to the Ramirez v. Commonwealth decision, Massachusetts law requires stun devices to be stored in a locked container that can only be opened by the owner or an authorized user.

It is illegal to enter or attempt to enter a secure area of an airport or plane cabin with a stun device, even with a firearms license. The penalties for violating the stun gun and Taser laws in Massachusetts can be severe. Possession of a stun gun or Taser by a minor, a convicted felon, or someone under a restraining order is a crime that can result in a prison sentence of up to 2 years and a fine of up to $1,000. Carrying a stun gun or Taser without a license in a public place can result in a prison sentence of up to 2 years and a fine of up to $1,000. It's important to note that these laws and fines can change, so consult with an attorney to verify.

To conclude, it is important to understand and comply with the stun gun and Taser laws in Massachusetts. If you are considering purchasing one of these self-defense weapons, it is important to make sure that you are legally allowed to own and carry it. Failure to do so could result in criminal charges and severe penalties. If you have any questions or concerns about the stun gun and Taser laws in this state, it is advisable to speak with a knowledgeable attorney or law enforcement professional.

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 Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The laws and regulations regarding stun guns, TASER devices, and other electronic defense weapons can vary widely by jurisdiction and can change over time. Therefore, it's important to consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities to obtain accurate and up-to-date information that applies to your specific circumstances.