Bill > H2446

This bill establishes a sexual assault counselor task force composed of representatives from various organizations focused on sexual assault support and victim advocacy, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and survivors. The task force will be chaired by the commissioner of the department of public health and include members from entities like Pathways for Change, Boston Area Rape Crisis Center, and the Victim Rights Law Center, among others. The primary purpose of this task force is to make comprehensive recommendations on improving sexual assault counselor standards, including updating legal definitions of "rape crisis center" and "sexual assault counselor," developing certification requirements and training curricula for both paid employees and volunteers, exploring potential certification levels, establishing fee structures, evaluating the feasibility of rape crisis center licensure, and investigating opportunities for continuing education and college credits related to sexual assault counseling training. The task force is required to submit a detailed report with findings and proposed legislation to legislative leaders within 12 months of the act's effective date, with the goal of enhancing professional standards and support for sexual assault counselors across the state.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2446