Massachusetts House Bill H1658

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

To enhance fairness and increase positive outcomes for children

Impact

The bill mandates that if electronic monitoring is ordered for more than thirty days, a court must hold a hearing every thirty days to determine if the juvenile's continued monitoring is justified or if less restrictive alternatives can achieve the same rehabilitative goals. Additionally, it establishes provisions that allow juveniles to receive credits against their confinement term corresponding to days spent on electronic monitoring. This aims to reduce the overall impact of electronic tracking on a juvenile's life and supports their reintegration into society.

Summary

House Bill 1658, proposed by Representative Marjorie C. Decker, is an initiative aimed at enhancing fairness and improving outcomes for juveniles within the Massachusetts judicial system. The bill addresses the use of electronic monitoring for juveniles, specifically focusing on the use of global positioning system (GPS) devices. It emphasizes the need for judicial oversight to prevent juveniles from being subjected to prolonged electronic monitoring without appropriate review, establishing a framework for regular hearings to evaluate the appropriateness of continuing such monitoring beyond thirty days.

Contention

A notable aspect of HB 1658 is its emphasis on data collection regarding the use of electronic monitoring. The juvenile court department is required to gather comprehensive statistical information, which will be reported annually to various legislative and judicial bodies. This data aims to foster accountability and transparency in the use of electronic devices on juveniles. However, the bill may face opposition concerning the potential privacy implications of tracking technology and the adequacy of measures to ensure that the monitoring does not infringe on the rights and freedoms of young individuals.