Bill > H1859

This bill would amend Massachusetts law to protect parents and legal guardians from being charged with child abuse or neglect when they follow medical advice from licensed healthcare providers. Specifically, the bill prevents child abuse charges if a parent or guardian seeks medical care, receives a diagnosis, and follows a prescribed treatment plan from a licensed medical or mental health professional. Additionally, the bill prohibits mandatory reporters (such as teachers, doctors, or social workers) from filing abuse or neglect reports solely based on a parent's decision to follow a recommended treatment plan. The bill also affirms a parent's right to choose between different medical opinions, allowing them to follow one provider's treatment plan over another, except in cases of immediately life-threatening conditions. In such critical situations, a parent's chosen treatment plan can only be overridden if there is clear and convincing evidence that the chosen treatment is inappropriate. This law appears to be named "Justina's Law," likely referencing a specific case that highlighted concerns about parental medical decision-making rights.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1859