An Act to empower and protect survivors of domestic violence

SD 1046 establishes a special commission to study Massachusetts' response to domestic violence and sexual assault victims, requiring it to analyze current resources, probation department efficiency, and victim engagement by December 2025. The bill creates a new Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Probation Unit within court probation departments, staffed by specialized probation officers and victim advocates who act as liaisons between victims and probation officers. It mandates that offenders in such cases enroll in certified batterer's treatment programs and requires probation officers to disclose relevant information to judges during hearings. The unit will handle victim complaints, coordinate with treatment programs, and compile case documentation, while the commission must submit recommendations to the legislature. This bill directly affects victims, probation departments, and court systems by structuring specialized support and accountability mechanisms.