Bill > H4426

This bill builds on criminal justice reform efforts in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: - Establishing a Forensic Science Oversight Board to provide independent oversight and review of forensic science practices and laboratories used in criminal investigations. The board will have the authority to investigate forensic techniques, ensure proper chain of custody, and make recommendations to improve the quality and reliability of forensic analysis. - Modifying the definition of a "delinquent child" to exclude certain minor offenses, and restricting the placement of juveniles in secure detention facilities in certain situations. - Expanding the definition of "serious mental illness" for incarcerated individuals and requiring certain standards and programming for those in restrictive housing units. - Enhancing opportunities for educational programs, medical parole, and limiting the use of restrictive housing for incarcerated individuals. - Strengthening laws around expungement and sealing of criminal records, and modifying the reporting requirements for mandated reporters. The overall aim is to further promote criminal justice reform, improve the integrity of forensic science practices, and provide more support and opportunities for incarcerated individuals.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H4426