H 4318 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to caregiver authorization affidavits

This bill creates a legal process for parents or guardians to formally authorize a designated adult, such as a relative or friend, to act as a caregiver for their minor children. The document, known as a caregiver authorization affidavit, grants the caregiver specific rights to make decisions regarding the child's education, healthcare, and recreational activities without needing a court order. To be valid, the affidavit must include detailed personal information, confirm that no court restrictions exist, and be signed under oath in front of two witnesses and a notary. The authorization is limited to two years and can be revoked or amended by the parent at any time, ensuring that the biological or legal guardian retains ultimate control over the child's welfare.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2024
Committee Review
May 2024
Senate Passage
Apr 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 8, 2024 Last action May 28, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
6
Key actions
2
Committee
3
May 28, 2024
Committee
Committee recommended bill ought to pass and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
lower
Apr 11, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 8, 2024
Committee
Reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Health Care Financing
lower
Feb 8, 2024
Lower · Passed
Reported from the committee on The Judiciary
lower
0 primary · 2 co-sponsors

Sponsors

No sponsor information available.