MA S1226

Establishes a special commission to study Massachusetts' response to and resources for domestic violence and sexual assault victims, with first meeting by December 1, 2025 and report due by December 1, 2026

Creates specialized domestic violence and sexual assault probation units in superior, Boston municipal, probate and family, and district courts, staffed with dedicated victim advocates from external nonprofits and specially trained probation officers

Increases maximum penalties for violating protective orders to fines up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment up to 5 years in a house of correction

Requires courts to consider substance use and sobriety status when deciding whether to extend or renew protective orders, with ongoing substance use weighing in favor of extension

Expands victims' rights to include: court postponement of up to one hour if victim is in transit, minimum one-hour consultation with new prosecutors assigned to their case, and ability to make statements during proceedings in response to defendant claims about violations