An Act establishing statewide standards for sexual assault and domestic violence service providers

This bill creates a permanent commission to develop and enforce uniform minimum standards for organizations providing services to survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence across Massachusetts. The commission will consist of 19 members representing government agencies, advocacy groups, and survivors, who will meet regularly to review current practices and propose consistent service guidelines. While the commission itself has no power to enforce rules, it will study existing programs and make recommendations to state agencies and local communities to improve care for victims. The members serve unpaid terms of two years and are responsible for ensuring that support services meet high, consistent quality levels throughout the state.