Where criminal records are more readily available via the internet and third-party background checkers, the potential for long lasting collateral consequences is increased. The recently enacted Criminal Justice Reform law seeks to reduce the negative impact of criminal records on a person’s ability to reintegrate into society..
Justice
animal welfare, civil law and procedure, criminal law, disability, drug policy, family law, freedom of speech, guardianship, gun violence, housing law, immigration, indigenous agenda, lgbtq rights, policing, privacy, sexual child abuse, terrorism, women's rights
The Massachusetts Adult Guardianship System
The legislature recognizes the need for possible changes in the guardianship system — both to make guardians more available when needed and to improve the quality of guardianship which is uneven. We have proposed a formal study of the situation.
Unenforced reproductive laws still on the books
What are your thoughts on Massachusetts laws still on the books that restrict abortion of other reproductive activities?
Extraordinary medical release in the Criminal Justice Package
Medical release of prisoners who are so debilitated that they pose no public safety risk is humane and will save money.
Collateral Consequences
This post summarizes collateral consequence issues in Massachusetts and the effects of the Criminal Justice Reform act of 2018 on collateral consequences.
Letter to the President from the Massachusetts State Senate
The Massachusetts State Senate has written to the President urging reversal of his harmful policy of separating families at the border.