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HD 1290

An Act to end mandatory life without the possibility of parole for the age of 21-25 and 364 days

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Chris Worrell

Massachusetts bill eliminates mandatory life-without-parole sentences for offenders aged 21-25, giving judges discretionary sentencing authority for this age group.

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Bill Summary · HD 1290

Legislative bill overview

This bill would prohibit mandatory life sentences without parole for individuals who commit crimes between ages 21-25 years and 364 days old. Instead, judges would retain discretion in sentencing for this age group, potentially allowing for sentences with parole eligibility or alternatives to life imprisonment.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses whether young adults should face the same irreversible sentencing consequences as older offenders, reflecting ongoing debate about criminal responsibility, brain development, and rehabilitation potential in the early twenties. The policy has direct consequences for sentencing outcomes, incarceration costs, and individuals' futures—particularly for serious crimes where mandatory minimums currently apply.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim and public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that removing mandatory sentences for serious crimes could insufficiently protect communities or fail to hold dangerous offenders accountable
  • Age and culpability definitions: Debate over whether 21-25 year-olds should be treated differently from slightly older adults, and whether neuroscience on brain development should drive criminal law
  • Scope specificity: The precise age cutoff (21-25 years, 364 days) is unusually narrow; questions may arise about why this specific window rather than broader young adult provisions or why excluding those 26 and older

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

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