WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1061

establishing a commission to study alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent offenders who are primary caregivers.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alissandra Murray and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1061 creates a study commission to examine and recommend alternatives to prison for nonviolent offenders who are primary caregivers, aiming to reduce family disruption and incarceration costs.

Indefinitely Postpone (Rep. Sweeney): MA RC 188-149 03/12/2026 HJ 7 P. 92
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1061

Legislative bill overview

HB 1061 would establish a commission to study and recommend alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent offenders who serve as primary caregivers for dependents. The bill creates a focused examination of how the criminal justice system can address the collateral consequences of incarcerating primary caregivers while maintaining public safety.

Why is this important

Incarceration of primary caregivers disrupts family stability, increases costs of foster care and social services, and may perpetuate cycles of poverty and involvement in the justice system. Studying alternatives like community supervision, electronic monitoring, or treatment programs could reduce these harms while potentially lowering corrections costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that alternatives to incarceration inadequately protect communities, particularly if alternatives aren't uniformly enforced or monitored
  • Implementation costs: Creating new supervision or treatment infrastructure requires funding, raising questions about whether savings from reduced incarceration offset program expenses
  • Definition and eligibility scope: Disagreement over what constitutes "primary caregiver" status and which nonviolent offenses qualify could determine the commission's practical reach and recommendations

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

Sign in to ask a question.