HD 3522 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to corrections officer safety

This bill strengthens penalties for assaulting corrections officers and Department of Corrections staff while they're performing their duties. It mandates a minimum 1-year prison sentence (not less than 1 year) for anyone causing serious bodily injury to these workers through assault, with fines ranging from $500 to $10,000. The law prohibits probation, parole, sentence reductions, or early release until the mandatory minimum term is served, and defines "serious bodily injury" as permanent disfigurement, loss of bodily function, or substantial risk of death. The bill directly affects corrections officers (who gain enhanced legal protection) and individuals convicted of such assaults (who face stricter sentencing).
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor