Criminal Justice Law Reform

For decades, the ACLU of Massachusetts has worked for criminal justice law reforms to end our reliance on incarceration, eliminate racial disparities in the system, and reinvest in public health and human needs.

Yellow graphic with blue image of a court room. .In the center left there is a gavel, and on the right is an image of handcuff being broken open.

We’re fighting for a justice system that will put an end to mass incarceration, eliminate racial disparities, decriminalize substance use disorders, and stop excessive punishments.

As a matter of principle, the ACLU also believes the death penalty is inherently wrong. Capital punishment violates our most basic principles of due process and equal protection. For these reasons, we pledge to keep defending the ban on state-sanctioned executions in Massachusetts.

The Latest

Resource
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Smart Justice means a broad array of reforms

Resource
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Addressing opioid addiction: treatment, not jail

Press Release
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ACLU of Massachusetts Renews “What a Difference a DA Makes” Campaign for 2026 District Attorney Elections

Long-running public education initiative highlights the impact prosecutors have on the community and the power of voters to hold them accountable
Issue Areas: Criminal Justice Law Reform, Racial Justice
Press Release
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ACLU of Massachusetts Statement on Counsel Crisis Following Oral Arguments at Supreme Judicial Court

When the state fails to create a system where indigent defense attorneys can afford to do their work, the most vulnerable defendants pay the cost. The court must step in and exercise its authority to protect the constitutional right to counsel.
Issue Areas: Criminal Justice Law Reform, Economic Justice

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation

Campaign
Jun 2026

The Road to Opportunity Act (H.3662 | S.2368)

Massachusetts should pass the Road to Opportunity Act (H.3662, S.2368) and end the practice of taking away driver’s licenses solely because of debts unrelated to dangerous driving.
Campaign
Feb 2019

Data for Justice

We can’t manage what we don’t measure.
Campaign
Jul 2026

What a Difference a DA Makes

District Attorneys have a huge impact on issues including incarceration rates, racial justice, and immigration. Learn more about what a DA does. (Hint: they answer to you!)