Bill > S1116

This bill establishes civil and criminal penalties for female genital mutilation (FGM) of minors, defining FGM as procedures involving the removal or injury of female genitalia for non-medical reasons, excluding medically necessary surgeries or sex reassignment procedures. It mandates the development of an education and prevention program by the commissioner to inform communities about the health risks and legal consequences of FGM, and to disseminate information to healthcare providers and law enforcement. The bill also enhances child welfare services for children at risk of or who have undergone FGM, including access to advocates and multidisciplinary service teams. Furthermore, it creates a civil cause of action for victims of FGM, allowing them to sue for damages, and establishes a three-year statute of limitations for such civil actions, which begins when the victim turns 18, with provisions for tolling the statute under certain circumstances. Criminal penalties for knowingly committing FGM on a child, facilitating it, or removing a child from the commonwealth for this purpose include life imprisonment, and business entities aiding in FGM face a $1,000,000 fine. The bill also amends existing laws to include FGM in reporting requirements for mandated reporters and in the definition of child abuse and neglect.