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HD 2837

An Act to strengthen justice and support for sex trade survivors

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tony Cabral and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill reframes sex trade survivors as victims eligible for record expungement and expanded support services rather than criminal prosecution.

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Bill Summary · HD 2837

Legislative bill overview

HD 2837 aims to strengthen legal protections and support services for individuals who have been exploited in the sex trade. The bill establishes new criminal justice procedures, victim support mechanisms, and definitions that treat sex trade survivors primarily as victims rather than offenders. It likely includes provisions for expungement of records, enhanced prosecution of traffickers, and increased funding for victim services.

Why is this important

Sex trade survivors often face legal consequences for survival activities while their exploiters receive minimal punishment, creating barriers to exiting exploitation and accessing services. Reframing these individuals as victims rather than criminals can reduce recidivism, improve access to housing and employment, and address root causes of vulnerability. The bill reflects a national shift toward "survivor-centered" justice approaches supported by research on trauma and exploitation.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition debates: Disagreement over who qualifies as a "survivor" versus someone making voluntary choices, and at what age consent can be presumed
  • Record expungement scope: Questions about whether all prior convictions should be erased or only specific categories, and fiscal impact on court systems
  • Law enforcement concerns: Potential friction with police practices and concerns that reduced prosecution of certain activities could complicate investigations or enable exploitation
  • Funding mechanisms: Disagreement over how new victim services will be funded and whether existing law enforcement budgets should be redirected

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

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