Bill > S1226

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to protecting domestic violence survivors through multiple key provisions. The legislation creates a special commission composed of various state officials, advocates, and survivor representatives to study and analyze the Commonwealth's response to domestic violence and sexual assault, with a mandate to produce a detailed report and recommendations by December 1, 2026. The bill introduces a new domestic violence and sexual assault probation unit in court departments, which includes a dedicated victim advocate who will serve as a primary liaison between victims and probation officers, compile case information, and provide support throughout legal proceedings. Additionally, the bill strengthens protections for victims by modifying existing laws to: require probation officers to have specialized training in domestic violence cases, mandate that offenders complete certified batterer's treatment programs, allow courts to consider substance use recovery when extending protective orders, increase penalties for violating protective orders, and expand victims' rights during court proceedings. The legislation also requires new complaint forms that include fields about fear for personal safety and experiences of coercive control, and ensures victims have more opportunities to be heard and supported throughout legal processes, such as the right to confer with prosecutors and make statements during hearings. The bill aims to create a more victim-centered approach to handling domestic violence cases while holding offenders accountable.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1226