Bill > H2225

This bill proposes to add a new section to Massachusetts General Laws, chapter 119, to allow individuals who are between 18 and 21 years old to petition the Probate and Family Court for a determination that they are "dependent on the court," meaning they are under the court's jurisdiction for specific findings and referrals but not legally incompetent. The court would consider petitions from these young adults who, due to childhood abuse, neglect, or abandonment, cannot safely return to their or their parents' previous country of nationality or habitual residence. To grant this determination, the court must find that the petitioner suffered abuse, neglect, or abandonment as a child, that reunification with parents is not viable because of this, and that returning to their previous country is not in their best interest, with the petitioner's health and safety being a primary concern. The bill also allows petitioners to seek protection orders, and the court can refer them to probation officers for assistance with various services, though participation is voluntary. These petitions must be heard before the individual turns 21, and the new provisions do not prevent existing courts from making similar findings for children.