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HD 5155

A report of the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office (under Section 24W(e) of Chapter 90 of the General Laws) submitting a report on its fiscal year 2025 Operating Under the Influence Deterrent Trust Fund (Melanie’s Law)

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Berkshire DA must report how fiscal 2025 OUI violation penalties were spent under Melanie's Law victim/prevention fund.

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Bill Summary · HD 5155

Legislative bill overview

HD 5155 requires the Berkshire District Attorney's Office to submit a report on the fiscal year 2025 Operating Under the Influence Deterrent Trust Fund (commonly known as Melanie's Law). This reporting requirement falls under Section 24W(e) of Chapter 90 of Massachusetts General Laws, which governs how funds collected from OUI (Operating Under the Influence) violations are managed and spent.

Why is this important

Melanie's Law, named after a victim of an impaired driving accident, dedicates a portion of OUI-related penalties and fines to fund education, victim services, and drunk driving prevention programs. Regular reporting on these funds ensures accountability and transparency in how money collected from violators is actually being used to prevent future impaired driving incidents and support victims.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation priorities — Stakeholders may disagree over whether funds should emphasize prosecution/enforcement, victim compensation, prevention education, or treatment programs
  • Administrative burden — Reporting requirements create paperwork obligations for the DA's office; some may view this as unnecessary bureaucratic overhead
  • Effectiveness measurement — The report may lack clear metrics on whether spending actually reduces OUI incidents, making it difficult to evaluate program success and justify continued funding

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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