S 152
An Act relative to preventing sexual abuse of children and youth by adults in positions of authority or trust
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Bill overview
This bill aims to prevent sexual abuse of children and youth by adults who hold positions of authority or trust in Massachusetts. It seeks to strengthen protections and safeguards for vulnerable children by addressing the issue of sexual abuse within various sectors. The bill’s specific details are currently under consideration by the Senate and House committees. It builds upon previous efforts to address similar concerns.
Key provisions
- Requires enhanced training for adults in positions of authority or trust regarding child safety and reporting procedures.
- Establishes clearer reporting requirements for suspected cases of sexual abuse.
- Expands the definition of ‘positions of authority or trust’ to encompass a wider range of roles.
- Mandates background checks for individuals working with children.
- Creates a task force to review and recommend improvements to child protection policies.
- Addresses confidentiality requirements related to reporting sexual abuse.
- Provides resources for victims of sexual abuse and their families.
- Requires reporting of incidents to the appropriate authorities.
Who is affected
- Children and youth in Massachusetts
- Adults in positions of authority or trust (e.g., teachers, coaches, healthcare professionals, religious leaders)
- Families of children and youth
- Organizations that work with children
- Government agencies responsible for child protection
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joan B. Lovely
Cosponsors
Christopher Hendricks
Dylan A. Fernandes
James B. Eldridge
Joan B. Lovely
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.152 194th (Current)
An Act relative to preventing sexual abuse of children and youth by adults in positions of authority or trust
By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 152) of Joan B. Lovely and Mark C. Montigny for legislation relative to preventing sexual abuse of children and youth by adults in positions of authority or trust. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Joan B. Lovely Status: Referred to Senate Committee on Ways and Means
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.152
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 10/9/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 10/21/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in B-1 |
| 12/22/2025 | Senate | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means |
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