H1617

Relative to long-term protection of victims of violence

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H1617 amends law to allow permanent abuse prevention orders for victims of violent crimes.

Massachusetts H1617 amends the General Laws to allow a judge to issue a permanent abuse prevention order at sentencing for victims of violent crimes. This applies to felonies involving physical force, misdemeanors or felonies involving abuse, and specific charges such as assault and battery, stalking, and rape. The order can be issued without a further hearing if the victim already has an active protective order. This measure aims to provide long-term protection for victims of violence.

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  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Sep 23, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Sep 16, 2025

Joint

Hearing scheduled for 09/23/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2

Sep 16, 2025

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order