Bill > S1643

This bill establishes an Office of Community Justice Programs within the Massachusetts Probation Service to create a statewide system of alternative criminal justice programs. The office will be led by an executive director appointed by the Commissioner of Probation and will develop and oversee various community-based programs including intensive supervision with treatment, pretrial services, and reentry services. These programs aim to provide alternatives to traditional incarceration by offering interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy, employment counseling, and educational support for individuals involved in the criminal justice system. The bill defines key terms such as "community justice program" and establishes guidelines for how courts can use these programs, including sentencing individuals to intensive supervision with treatment as a condition of probation, with the important caveat that this cannot replace mandatory minimum prison sentences. The legislation also includes protections for program participants, such as ensuring that statements made during program assessments cannot be used against them in legal proceedings. Additionally, the bill requires an annual report to be submitted detailing the utilization, effectiveness, and financial aspects of these community justice programs, with the goal of reducing prison commitments and improving court appearance rates.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1643