Bill > S2159

This bill establishes an office of restorative justice within the executive office for administration and finance, which will serve as the primary administrative and funding entity for publicly sponsored restorative justice initiatives in Massachusetts. The office will be led by a director appointed by the secretary of administration and finance, who must have substantial professional experience in restorative justice. The office's key functions include designing and funding restorative justice programs, creating best practice standards, providing educational programs and technical assistance, and serving as a central repository for restorative justice resources. The bill defines restorative justice as practices that aim to heal harm within communities, including victim-offender conferences, family group conferences, and community circles that can be used at any point before, during, or after court involvement. A statewide advisory committee of up to 18 members, equally representing government and non-government stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, will guide the office's work. The director can establish fees for services, accept grants and contributions, and will be required to submit an annual report detailing the office's activities and financial information to various state leaders and legislative committees by December 31st each year.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2159