An Act relative to fetal homicide
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill establishes the crime of fetal homicide in Massachusetts, creating legal protections for fetuses harmed during pregnancy. It aims to ensure that harm to a fetus resulting from criminal acts is treated as a crime, offering legal recourse for victims and their families. The bill seeks to clarify existing laws and provide a framework for prosecuting offenses that cause harm to a fetus. It also establishes a process for determining fetal viability.
Key provisions
- Defines fetal homicide as harm to a fetus during pregnancy.
- Creates a new crime of fetal homicide.
- Establishes legal protections for fetuses.
- Provides a legal pathway for victims and families.
- Addresses the determination of fetal viability.
- Specifies the circumstances under which fetal homicide charges may be brought.
Who is affected
- Pregnant individuals
- Families of victims of crime
- Criminal defendants
- The legal system
- Victim advocates
Notable changes
- Introduces a specific legal framework for crimes against fetuses.
- Clarifies the legal status of a fetus in cases of criminal harm.
- May impact existing criminal law and victim compensation laws.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
7 on record
Primary sponsor
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
Cosponsors
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
Kimberly N. Ferguson
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