Massachusetts H1929: An Act to expand juvenile court justice access

What the bill says

From the introduced text, February 27, 2025:

SECTION 1. Amendment to Chapter 218 of the General Laws Section 58 of Chapter 218 of the General Laws, as most recently amended by Chapter 154 of the Acts of 2018, is hereby amended by striking out the number of justices specified for each county and replacing it with the following revised totals. These adjustments increase the total number of justices in the Juvenile Court Department from 42 to 80, reflecting population growth and youth demographics in each county: Suffolk County: 10 justices Middlesex County: 10 justices Worcester County: 8 justices Franklin and Hampshire Counties: 3 justices Bristol County: 6 justices Essex County: 8 justices Norfolk County: 5 justices Plymouth County: 6 justices Barnstable County and the Town of Plymouth: 3 justices Berkshire and Hampden Counties: 5 justices SECTION 2. Assignment and Distribution of Justices The Chief Justice of the Juvenile Court Department, in consultation with the Chief Justice of the Trial Court, shall develop a detailed plan for the assignment of the newly authorized justices to the respective divisions. This plan shall include, but not be limited to: Caseload Analysis: An assessment of existing and projected caseloads to determine areas of highest need. Demographic Considerations: An evaluation of county population trends, youth demographics, and socio-economic factors that impact the demand for juvenile justice services. Equitable Allocation: Ensuring that resources …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• Francisco Paulino (D) · primary sponsor

Latest actions

1. March 26, 2026: Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
2. November 4, 2025: Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual<br> <span style="color: blue; font-style: italic;">Hearing updated to New End Time</span>
3. November 4, 2025: Hearing rescheduled to 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-02:30 PM in A-1 and Virtual<br> <span style="color: blue; font-style: italic;">Hearing updated to New End Time</span>
4. October 29, 2025: Hearing scheduled for 11/04/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
5. February 27, 2025: Senate concurred
6. February 27, 2025: Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
7. : Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order

Common questions

What is H1929?

H1929 is a bill in the Massachusetts Legislature (194th General Court): An Act to expand juvenile court justice access.

What is the status of H1929?

Failed as of March 26, 2026. Latest action: Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27) (March 26, 2026).

Who sponsored H1929?

Francisco Paulino (D).

Where is the official record for H1929?

On the Massachusetts Legislature website: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1929