Massachusetts S1097 amends the definition of "abuse" to include coercive control in domestic relationships.

Massachusetts S1097 amends the definition of "abuse" in the state's general laws to include coercive control as a form of domestic abuse. Coercive control is defined as a pattern of behavior that unreasonably interferes with a person's free will and personal liberty. This includes isolating the other party from friends, relatives, or support sources, depriving them of basic necessities, controlling their movements, communications, daily behavior, finances, or access to services, and compelling them to engage in conduct by force, threat, or intimidation.

Massachusetts S1097 amends the definition of "abuse" to include coercive control in domestic relationships.

Massachusetts S1097 amends the definition of "abuse" in the state's general laws to include coercive control as a form of domestic abuse. Coercive control is defined as a pattern of behavior that unreasonably interferes with a person's free will and personal liberty. This includes isolating the other party from friends, relatives, or support sources, depriving them of basic necessities, controlling their movements, communications, daily behavior, finances, or access to services, and compelling them to engage in conduct by force, threat, or intimidation.