Bill > S1756

This bill aims to eliminate "pay-to-stay" fees for inmates and juveniles in Massachusetts, which are charges imposed on incarcerated individuals or their families for room, board, and living expenses during their confinement. Specifically, the bill prevents superintendents from deducting money earned by inmates for living-related expenses and prohibits courts from ordering parents or guardians to pay for their child's care while in an institution. The legislation applies retroactively to deductions and payment orders made after January 1, 2020, mandating that all such previously collected fees be refunded to affected inmates, youth, or their families. The Department of Correction must create implementing regulations within 30 days of the act's enactment, and the Juvenile Court must immediately stop issuing payment orders for youth care. The bill's broader purpose is to ensure that the costs of incarceration are not financially burden inmates or their families, emphasizing that the Commonwealth should bear the expenses of care and accommodation for incarcerated individuals.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1756