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SD 1816

An Act protecting survivors of rape and their children

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sal DiDomenico and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill restricts parental rights of rape perpetrators and protects survivors from custody disputes with attackers, prioritizing survivor safety in family court.

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Bill Summary · SD 1816

Legislative bill overview

SD 1816 proposes legal protections for survivors of rape and children born as a result of rape in Massachusetts. The bill aims to address gaps in existing law regarding parental rights, custody, and support obligations in cases involving rape. Specific provisions likely include restrictions on parental rights for convicted rapists and protections for survivors in family court proceedings.

Why this is important

Rape survivors currently face potential custody disputes and ongoing legal contact with their attackers through family court systems, creating additional trauma and safety concerns. Children born from rape may face custody arrangements that prioritize the biological parent's legal rights over survivor safety and child welfare. Clarifying these legal protections affects how the state balances parental rights with survivor protection and child safety in an emotionally and legally complex context.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Questions about whether restrictions on parental rights require conviction versus other standards of proof, and what procedural safeguards apply
  • Scope of protections: Debate over whether the bill covers only convicted perpetrators or broader circumstances, and how "rape" is legally defined
  • Parental rights vs. survivor safety: Balancing constitutional parental rights with practical safety needs, including child support obligations and visitation restrictions

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

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