MA H4065

Creates a rebuttable presumption in court proceedings that child neglect does not include a domestic violence victim's failure to prevent a child from witnessing abuse, leave the home, end the relationship, report the violence, or seek a protection order

Applies the same rebuttable presumption to all Department of Children and Families administrative proceedings, not just court cases

Defines "domestic violence" to include coercive control as defined in Chapter 209A of Massachusetts General Laws

Requires mandatory domestic violence training for all Department of Children and Families employees

Filed on January 17, 2025 by Representative David Henry Argosky LeBoeuf (17th Worcester) and co-sponsored by Representative Patrick Joseph Kearney (4th Plymouth)