An Act relative to domestic violence reports and confidentiality
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Create an account to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill addresses the confidentiality of domestic violence reports in Massachusetts. It aims to clarify when and how information from these reports can be shared, particularly regarding the release of names and addresses of both the alleged victim and the alleged abuser. The bill seeks to balance the need for law enforcement to investigate and prevent further harm with the privacy rights of individuals involved in domestic violence situations. It also establishes a process for reviewing and potentially modifying confidentiality protocols.
Key provisions
- Establishes guidelines for sharing information from domestic violence reports.
- Clarifies when names and addresses of both parties can be released.
- Creates a process for reviewing and updating confidentiality protocols.
- Addresses the release of information to third parties, such as shelters and support services.
- Requires law enforcement to consider confidentiality when making decisions about investigations.
Who is affected
- Domestic violence victims
- Alleged domestic violence perpetrators
- Law enforcement agencies
- Domestic violence shelters and support services
- The general public
Notable changes
- Modifies existing protocols regarding the release of information in domestic violence cases.
- Introduces a review process for confidentiality guidelines.
Bill text
Read the latest version inline or switch to a previous version.
Text extraction is in progress. View the official source.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
14 on record
Primary sponsor
Andres X. Vargas
Cosponsors
Andres X. Vargas
Danillo A. Sena
James B. Eldridge
Arguments
Reasons offered for and against this legislation.
Arguments in favor
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours