Bill > H1790

This bill amends the Massachusetts General Laws by creating a new provision that increases criminal penalties for domestic violence committed in the presence of children under 16 years old. Specifically, if an individual commits assault or assault and battery within a dwelling while a child under 16 is present, they can be punished by up to 5 years in state prison, up to 2½ years in a house of correction, a fine of up to $5,000, or a combination of these penalties. Additionally, the law requires that when law enforcement files such charges, they must also notify the Department of Social Services (now known as the Department of Children and Families), who can then use this information at their discretion to potentially intervene and protect the child's welfare. This legislation aims to recognize the additional traumatic impact of domestic violence on children who witness such incidents and provide enhanced legal consequences for offenders.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1790