Bill > H3886

This bill aims to enhance support and protection for military-connected families across several key areas. It establishes concurrent jurisdiction between state and federal courts for offenses committed by children on military installations, allowing prosecution in either system under certain conditions. The bill clarifies procedures for transferring jurisdictional control of military properties between the state and federal government. It requires police officers to check and report on military protective orders (MPOs) registered in the FBI's National Crime Information Center database when arresting service members. For military-connected students, the bill mandates that school districts ensure continuity of special education services during transfers, with provisions for quick reevaluation and record transfer. The legislation also allows military-connected students to enroll in their school district of choice regardless of capacity, based on their parents' active duty status. Additionally, the bill provides legal protections by defining military protective orders and making them admissible as evidence in court proceedings, and requires school districts to reimburse witness fees for active-duty parents in special education hearings. These provisions collectively seek to reduce administrative barriers and provide additional support for military families living in Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3886