S 1121 Massachusetts Senate · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act updating bail procedures for justice-involved youth

SD 1104 updates bail procedures for youth aged 12-18 involved in the justice system. It requires officers to immediately notify a parent, guardian, or the Department of Children and Families for all youth 12-18 arrested without a warrant when courts are not in session. For youth aged 14-18, officers must also notify a bail magistrate, who must review the case before release. The bill clarifies that youth may be released on bail with a written promise from a responsible adult, but must be detained in approved facilities if they cannot post bail, are charged with non-bailable offenses, or if a court orders detention pending appearance. This directly affects youth in custody and law enforcement officers handling juvenile arrests.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
House Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025 Last action Dec 18, 2025
Floor votes

How they voted

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

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 27, 2025
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors