WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 1750

An Act to protect victims of stalking in violation of harassment prevention orders

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kate Hogan and 1 co-sponsor

H 1750 strengthens stalking victim protections by enhancing enforcement and penalties for violating harassment prevention orders in Massachusetts courts.

Hearing scheduled for 06/17/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 1750

Legislative bill overview

H 1750 strengthens protections for stalking victims by enhancing enforcement mechanisms and penalties related to violations of harassment prevention orders (also called restraining orders). The bill modifies existing Massachusetts law to better protect individuals who have obtained court-ordered protections from stalkers.

Why is this important

Harassment prevention orders are only effective if violations carry meaningful consequences and are actively enforced. Stalking causes severe psychological harm and safety risks to victims; strengthening enforcement ensures these court orders serve their intended protective purpose rather than functioning as paper protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: Determining what constitutes a "violation" versus lawful behavior that coincidentally occurs near a protected person (e.g., living in same neighborhood before the order)
  • Enforcement burden: Requiring victims to document and report violations places ongoing responsibility on traumatized individuals; questions about police response times and resource allocation
  • Penalty escalation: Balancing meaningful consequences for violators against proportionality concerns and potential impacts on incarceration rates

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

Sign in to ask a question.