An Act relative to the composition of the Victim and Witness Assistance Board

This bill changes how the Victim and Witness Assistance Board in Massachusetts is formed to ensure it better represents the people it serves. The board will consist of seven members, including the Attorney General as chair, two district attorneys appointed by the governor, and four public members who must include at least one person from an underserved community. These public members will be chosen from a list of nominations provided by the executive director, while the Attorney General and district attorneys are appointed directly by the governor. The legislation also defines "underserved community" to include groups disproportionately affected by violence and crime, and it requires all members to come from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the bill increases the number of public members on the board from four to six to enhance representation.