Signed by Governor Maura Healey

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that classifies coercive control as a form of domestic violence in Massachusetts.

Highlights:

• Classifies coercive control as a form of domestic violence in Massachusetts (Sec. 1-7

• Defines “coercive control” as a pattern of behavior intended to threaten, intimidate, harass, isolate, control, coerce, or compel compliance of a family or household member that causes the family or household member to fear physical harm or have a reduced sense of physical safety or autonomy (Sec. 1-7).

• Specifies the following as coercive control tactics including, but not limited to (Sec. 1-7):

• Isolation; 

• Threatening to harm a child, family member, or pet; 

• Intentionally damaging property; or

• Threatening to release sensitive images or information.

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the governor (Sec. 8).

Full Bill Text