MA H1995

Requires persons convicted of hate crimes or receiving a continuance without a finding to complete a diversity awareness program designed by the Executive Office of Public Safety in consultation with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination

Mandates courts to order the diversity awareness program when the defendant's actions were motivated by race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability

Allows courts to waive the program requirement only upon good cause shown with specific written findings explaining why the program should not be ordered

Requires completion of the diversity awareness program prior to release from incarceration or prior to completion of probation terms

Extends sentencing provisions to apply equally to those receiving a continuance without a finding, not just those formally convicted