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HD 2894

An Act providing civil legal remedies for victims of economic abuse

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mindy Domb and 8 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill creating civil court remedies for economic abuse victims to recover damages and obtain protective orders against financial control.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2894

Legislative bill overview

HD 2894 creates civil legal remedies allowing victims of economic abuse to seek damages and injunctive relief through the court system. The bill defines economic abuse as a pattern of controlling another person's economic resources, including restricting access to income, employment, bank accounts, or credit. This establishes economic abuse as a standalone civil tort in Massachusetts, distinct from existing domestic violence protections.

Why is this important

Economic abuse is a recognized tool used by abusers to maintain control and prevent victims from leaving relationships, yet most states lack specific civil remedies targeting this behavior. Creating standalone legal action allows victims to obtain court orders, recover damages, and establish a legal record without requiring criminal prosecution. This addresses a significant gap in Massachusetts's domestic violence protections and provides practical recourse for victims whose economic autonomy has been stripped.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope concerns: "Pattern of controlling" language may be subject to interpretation disputes, raising questions about what conduct qualifies and how courts will consistently apply definitions across cases.
  • Burden of proof standards: Questions about evidentiary requirements—how victims prove economic control occurred and establish damages, particularly in cases where financial entanglement is common in relationships.
  • Interaction with family law: Uncertainty about how civil economic abuse claims interact with existing divorce, separation, and family court proceedings that already address financial divisions and support obligations.

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

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