H2038

To require restitution for a child whose parent is killed by a drunk driver

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H2038 mandates restitution for children whose parents are killed by drunk drivers.

Massachusetts H2038 amends Chapter 265 of the General Laws to require restitution for children whose parents are killed by drunk drivers. The court must order a convicted defendant to pay monthly support for the child until they reach 18 or graduate high school. If the defendant is incarcerated, payments begin within a year of release. The court considers the child's financial needs, the surviving parent's resources, and the child's standard of living when determining the restitution amount.

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
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