H4466
An Act to modernize the roles and responsibilities of the victim and witness assistance board
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Bill overview
This bill aims to update the structure and duties of the Victim and Witness Assistance Board (VWAB) in Massachusetts. It seeks to clarify the board’s role in supporting victims and witnesses in criminal cases, ensuring they have the resources and authority needed to effectively assist. The bill intends to streamline processes and improve the overall effectiveness of the VWAB’s services. Specifically, it addresses areas of potential overlap and clarifies responsibilities to better serve those impacted by crime.
Key provisions
- Clarifies the VWAB’s role in coordinating victim and witness support services.
- Updates the board’s responsibilities regarding resource allocation.
- Addresses potential conflicts of interest within the board.
- Establishes guidelines for the board’s training and professional development.
- Defines the scope of the board’s authority in providing assistance.
Who is affected
- Victims of crime
- Witnesses in criminal cases
- The Victim and Witness Assistance Board
- The Judiciary branch
- Law enforcement agencies
Notable changes
- The bill seeks to modernize existing procedures and guidelines for the VWAB.
- It clarifies the board’s authority to request and utilize resources.
- The bill aims to improve coordination among various support services.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsors
Estela A. Reyes
Marjorie C. Decker
Michael S. Day
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Bill H.4466 194th (Current)
An Act to modernize the roles and responsibilities of the victim and witness assistance board
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Joint Committee on the Judiciary Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
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Bill History Cosponsors Committee Vote Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 3 actions for Bill H.4466
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 9/11/2025 | House | Reported from the committee on The Judiciary |
| 9/11/2025 | House | New draft of H1640 and H1655 |
| 9/11/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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