Bill > H4538

This bill introduces comprehensive measures to prevent sexual misconduct and abuse of students in educational settings across Massachusetts. The legislation establishes new requirements for schools, including mandatory adoption of an abuse prevention policy that outlines a code of conduct for employees, and mandates biennial training for mandated reporters on recognizing, preventing, and responding to inappropriate behaviors. Schools must now conduct thorough background checks on job applicants, requiring them to disclose any previous investigations or allegations of abuse or sexual misconduct, and contact all former employers to verify the applicant's history. The bill also mandates age-appropriate student instruction on recognizing inappropriate behavior, understanding body boundaries, and communicating concerns to trusted adults. Additionally, the bill creates new criminal penalties for educators over 21 who engage in sexual misconduct with students, with specific provisions for students under and over 16, including potential imprisonment and automatic suspension of professional licenses. The legislation defines key terms like "sexual misconduct" and "abuse" broadly to cover verbal, nonverbal, written, and electronic communications that could constitute inappropriate behavior, and applies to all types of schools including public, private, charter, and parochial institutions.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on the Judiciary (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4538