S 1419
An Act relative to protective custody
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes a framework for protective custody in Massachusetts, designed to ensure the safety of individuals who pose a significant risk of harm to themselves or others. It outlines procedures for determining when protective custody is necessary, the rights of individuals subject to it, and the responsibilities of those involved in the process. The goal is to provide a structured approach to managing individuals experiencing a crisis while upholding their fundamental rights.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘protective custody’ as a temporary measure to ensure safety.
- Establishes criteria for determining when protective custody is appropriate.
- Specifies the rights of individuals subject to protective custody.
- Outlines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including mental health professionals and law enforcement.
- Requires the Department of Mental Health to develop guidelines for protective custody.
- Mandates reporting requirements for instances of protective custody.
- Addresses the process for transitioning individuals out of protective custody.
- Requires regular review and evaluation of the protective custody system.
Who is affected
- Individuals experiencing mental health crises
- Individuals posing a risk of harm to themselves or others
- Mental health professionals
- Law enforcement officers
- Families of individuals in crisis
Notable changes
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Bruce E. Tarr
Cosponsors
Bruce E. Tarr
Peter J. Durant
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.1419 194th (Current)
An Act relative to protective custody
By Mr. Tarr, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1419) of Bruce E. Tarr for legislation relative to protective custody. Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Bruce E. Tarr
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill S.1419
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 10/3/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 10/14/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2 |
| 1/8/2026 | Senate | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Health Care Financing |
| 2/26/2026 | Senate | Accompanied a study order, see S2972 |
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