MA H1733

Creates a new criminal offense for employees or contractors of schools, Department of Youth Services, DCF, Department of Mental Health, or Department of Developmental Services who sexually abuse individuals under age 19 (or under 22 for special education students under Chapter 71B) who have not yet received a high school diploma or equivalent

Extends protections to college/university students age 19 or under who have not received a high school diploma, making it a crime for institutional employees or contractors to sexually abuse them

Penalties include imprisonment up to 5 years in state prison, a fine up to $10,000, or both

Victims served by covered institutions are deemed legally incapable of consenting to sexual relations with employees or contractors, eliminating consent as a defense in both criminal prosecutions and civil actions

Creates a corresponding civil cause of action under Chapter 260, Section 4C for victims to sue employees or contractors who commit sexual abuse under these circumstances