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Bill

SD 1404

An Act to modernize the roles and responsibilities of the victim and witness assistance board

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Gómez

Massachusetts updates the Victim and Witness Assistance Board's structure and duties to improve crime victim and witness support services in the modern justice system.

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Bill Summary · SD 1404

Legislative bill overview

SD 1404 modernizes the Massachusetts Victim and Witness Assistance Board by updating its statutory framework, governance structure, and operational procedures. The bill revises the board's composition, duties, and authority to better serve crime victims and witnesses in the contemporary criminal justice system.

Why is this important

Victim and witness assistance boards play a crucial role in supporting people who participate in prosecutions, affecting their willingness to engage with the justice system. Modernizing these structures can improve services like counseling referrals, court accompaniment, compensation processing, and protection from intimidation—ultimately strengthening prosecution outcomes and victim recovery.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of board responsibilities: Expanding duties without corresponding budget increases could strain resources or create unfunded mandates for staff
  • Board composition changes: Modifications to who sits on the board may shift priorities between victim advocacy, law enforcement, prosecution, and judicial perspectives
  • Implementation timeline: Updating governance structures requires training, policy development, and operational changes that could create transition costs or service disruptions

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

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