Bill > H1469

This bill, titled Justina's Law, amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 119 to add a new section that protects parents and legal guardians from being accused of child abuse or neglect if they follow the medical or mental health advice of a licensed professional. Specifically, a parent or guardian will not be charged with neglect if they have sought care from a licensed provider, that provider has made a diagnosis and prescribed a lawful treatment, and the parent or guardian is following or willing to follow that recommended treatment. Furthermore, mandatory reporters, individuals legally obligated to report suspected child abuse or neglect, cannot file a report solely based on a parent's decision to adhere to a licensed provider's treatment plan, even if another provider offers a different opinion, unless the situation involves immediate life-threatening conditions and there is clear and convincing evidence to override the parent's choice.