Bill > S1223

This bill seeks to empower and protect survivors of domestic violence through several key provisions. First, it establishes a special commission to study the Commonwealth's response to domestic violence and sexual assault, comprised of various state officials, advocates, and survivors, which will analyze current resources, probation department practices, and produce recommendations by December 1, 2025. The bill expands the legal definition of "abuse" to include coercive control, such as isolating victims, controlling their movements, and intimidating them. It creates a dedicated domestic violence and sexual assault probation unit with specialized victim advocates and probation officers trained specifically in handling these sensitive cases. The legislation increases penalties for violating protective orders, with potential fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. Additionally, the bill mandates that batterer treatment programs must confirm a defendant's meaningful rehabilitation before releasing them, and introduces stricter consequences for tampering with GPS tracking devices. The bill also enhances victim rights by allowing victims to make statements during court proceedings, ensuring they are consulted about case developments, and mandating that complaint forms be easily accessible. These comprehensive measures aim to provide stronger support, protection, and legal recourse for domestic violence survivors while holding offenders more accountable.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1223