An Act relative to probation violations
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill addresses probation violations in Massachusetts. It aims to provide greater clarity and consistency in how probation violations are handled, particularly concerning technical violations – those that don’t involve new criminal activity. The bill seeks to limit the use of incarceration for these technical violations and promote alternative sentencing options. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce the reliance on incarceration for minor probation infractions.
Key provisions
- Limits the use of incarceration for technical probation violations.
- Requires a review of probationers’ cases to determine if continued supervision is necessary.
- Promotes the use of alternative sentencing options, such as community service or treatment programs.
- Addresses inconsistencies in probation violation definitions across different courts.
- Establishes a process for probationers to challenge probation violations.
Who is affected
- Individuals on probation in Massachusetts
- Probation officers
- The court system
- District Attorneys
- The public
Notable changes
- The bill seeks to shift the focus from punitive measures to rehabilitation and support for probationers.
- It aims to reduce the number of individuals incarcerated for technical probation violations.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
2 on record
Primary sponsor
Patricia D. Jehlen
Cosponsor
Patricia D. Jehlen
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