Bill > H1719

This bill adds a new section to Chapter 269 of Massachusetts General Laws to impose criminal penalties on parents, legal guardians, or caretakers who fail to report critical information about a missing or deceased minor child. Specifically, if a parent or guardian does not contact law enforcement or emergency personnel within 48 hours about the whereabouts of a child 16 years old or younger, they can be sentenced to up to five years in state prison. Additionally, if a parent or guardian knows about a child's death and does not notify authorities within one hour, they can face either up to five years in state prison, or a combination of a fine up to $10,000 and up to two and a half years in a house of correction. The bill aims to ensure prompt reporting of missing or deceased children to help expedite potential rescue efforts or criminal investigations, ultimately with the goal of protecting children's safety.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1719