Bill > H1704

This bill amends Massachusetts law to create new criminal penalties for individuals who aid, support, or entice children to run away from their legal caregivers. The bill defines "entice" broadly to include actions like luring, persuading, tempting, or inviting a child to leave their authorized care. The legislation establishes different penalties based on the child's age and the specific circumstances of the runaway situation. For children under 18, a person who helps a child abscond from parental or guardian care could face up to one year in a house of correction or a $1,000 fine. For children under 14, the penalties are more severe, with potential state prison sentences of up to 5 years. The bill imposes even stricter penalties if a child is removed from the custody of the Department of Children and Families, foster care, or another legally responsible entity, with potential prison sentences up to 5 or 10 years depending on the child's age. Additionally, if these offenses occur within 300 feet of a school, the penalties increase to up to 5 years in prison and a minimum $2,500 fine. The goal of this legislation appears to be protecting children by deterring individuals from interfering with their legal care and supervision.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1704