Bill > S1063

This bill enhances the rights of crime victims in Massachusetts by making several key modifications to existing law. The bill expands the definition of family members to include grandparents and individuals in marriage-like relationships, and adds new definitions for terms like "probation officer" and "limited English proficient." It ensures that victims of violent crimes can receive services even in cases where no formal complaint has been filed, and provides victims with more robust rights throughout the legal process. Specifically, the bill strengthens victims' rights to be present and heard during sentencing, mandates notification about probation violations and sex offender registry hearings, and requires courts to consider victim impact statements. The bill also establishes a special commission to evaluate and improve bail notification services for victims and their families, with a diverse membership including representatives from law enforcement, judicial, and victim advocacy organizations. The commission is tasked with studying current practices, recommending improvements, and submitting a comprehensive report by December 31, 2026, with the goal of enhancing notification and support services for crime victims across the criminal justice system.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1063