Bill > H1999

This bill establishes a permanent 19-member commission dedicated to studying service standards for sexual assault and domestic violence service providers in Massachusetts. The commission will include diverse representatives such as government officials, legislative members, survivors, and advocates from various organizations focused on sexual assault and domestic violence support. Members will serve two-year terms without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses. The commission's primary responsibilities include studying current practices and service standards for sexual assault and domestic violence service providers, developing recommendations for uniform minimum service standards, and conducting ongoing reviews to improve those standards. The commission will have broad powers, including holding public meetings, conducting hearings, establishing offices, and soliciting information and funds from various sources. Members will be required to submit initial recommendations to the executive office of health and human services within 180 days of the act's passage and will subsequently provide biennial reports with reassessments of service standards and policy recommendations to the governor, secretary of health and human services, and legislative clerks. The bill ensures the commission's membership will be periodically reviewed to maintain its effectiveness and relevance in supporting survivors.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1999