An Act protecting children from domestic violence

This bill amends Massachusetts law to increase penalties for assault or assault and battery committed inside a home when a child under 16 is present. It directly affects individuals charged with domestic violence by establishing a specific sentencing range of up to five years in state prison or two and a half years in the house of correction, along with a potential fine of $5,000. Additionally, the legislation requires law enforcement agencies to notify the Department of Social Services whenever such charges are filed. This change aims to provide stricter consequences for domestic violence incidents that occur in the presence of young children.