S 127
An Act authorizing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to establish additional mandated reporters for the purpose of the protection and care of children
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill allows the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to expand the list of individuals required to report suspected child abuse or neglect – known as mandated reporters. Currently, certain professions are mandated to report, and this legislation broadens the scope to include more individuals. The goal is to improve the identification and protection of children at risk. This expansion aims to increase the number of people who can potentially notice and report concerning situations involving children.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of ‘mandated reporter’ to include additional professions and individuals.
- Authorizes the Department of Children and Families to determine which professions and individuals will be designated as mandated reporters.
- Requires mandated reporters to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.
- Establishes guidelines for mandated reporters regarding their reporting responsibilities.
- Provides for training and resources for mandated reporters.
Who is affected
- Healthcare professionals
- Educators
- Social workers
- Childcare providers
- Law enforcement
Notable changes
- Broadens the existing definition of mandated reporters.
- Allows for the Department of Children and Families to determine specific reporting requirements.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Paul R. Feeney
Cosponsors
Michael S. Chaisson
Paul R. Feeney
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.127 194th (Current)
An Act authorizing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to establish additional mandated reporters for the purpose of the protection and care of children
By Mr. Feeney, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 127) of Paul R. Feeney and Michael S. Chaisson for legislation to authorize the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to establish additional mandated reporters for the purpose of the protection and care of children. Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Paul R. Feeney
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Bill History Petitioners Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.127
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 6/27/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 07/08/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 |
| 11/3/2025 | Senate | Accompanied a new draft, see S2659 |
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