Bill > S2987

This bill amends Section 54A of Chapter 119 of the General Laws to modify the eligibility criteria for diverting juveniles to community supervision and services. The bill outlines specific exceptions where a child would not be eligible for diversion, such as if the child is indicted as a youthful offender, charged with an offense that cannot be continued without a finding or placed on file, or charged with an offense that carries a potential penalty of incarceration greater than 5 years. However, the bill provides that a child would be eligible for diversion if charged with certain specified offenses, such as operating a motor vehicle under the influence, simple assault, or disturbing the peace. The bill also clarifies that diversion of juvenile court charges does not preclude a subsequent indictment on the same charges in superior court.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on the Judiciary (J), Senate Committee on Ways and Means (S)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2987