An Act to promote public safety and better outcomes for youth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 40 co-sponsors

Bill H 1923 raises the criminal age from 18 to 21, treating youth offenders as minors to enhance rehabilitation and improve outcomes in Massachusetts' justice system.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 1923 aims to enhance public safety and improve outcomes for youth in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by redefining the age of criminal majority. The bill seeks to shift the legal age at which individuals are considered adults in the eyes of the law, thereby impacting how youth offenders are treated within the judicial system.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to existing laws regarding the age of criminal majority, which currently stands at 18 years. The key changes include:

Redefinition of Criminal Majority:

The bill proposes to gradually increase the age of criminal majority from 18 to 21 years. This means that individuals under 21 would be treated as minors in legal proceedings related to criminal offenses.

Amendments to Various Sections of the General Laws:

The bill amends multiple sections of the General Laws to replace references to "18 years" with "the age of criminal majority." This includes:
- Chapter 4, Section 7
- Chapter 6, Section 167
- Chapter 31, Section 20
- Chapter 37, Section 24
- Chapter 41, Section 98F
- Chapter 94C, Sections 32H and 32M
- Chapter 119, Sections 52, 54, and 58
These amendments will ensure that all legal references align with the new definition of criminal majority.

Probation and Sentencing Adjustments:

The bill outlines specific adjustments to probation terms for youth offenders, extending the duration of probation based on the age of the offender at the time of the offense.

Affected Parties

Youth Offenders: The primary group affected by this legislation will be individuals under the age of 21 who are involved in the criminal justice system. They will benefit from a legal framework that recognizes their developmental stage and provides opportunities for rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Judicial System: Courts and law enforcement agencies will need to adapt to the new definitions and procedures outlined in the bill, potentially impacting case management and sentencing practices.

Procedural Aspects

Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing for Bill H 1923 is set for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-1. This hearing will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to express their views on the proposed changes.

Legislative Timeline: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has been referred to the committee on The Judiciary. The Senate has concurred with the bill's referral.

Conclusion

Bill H 1923 represents a significant shift in how the Commonwealth of Massachusetts approaches youth justice. By redefining the age of criminal majority, the bill aims to foster better outcomes for young individuals while promoting public safety through a more rehabilitative approach to youth offenses. The upcoming hearing will be crucial for gathering public input and shaping the final form of the legislation.

Bill