Legislation addresses teen sexting and image-based sexual assault, coercive control, and extends the statute of limitations for certain domestic violence offenses (BOSTON) – On Wednesday, January 10, Representative Joan Meschino (D-Hull) joined the Massachusetts House of Representatives to pass legislation that combines several separate legislative initiatives into one bill which will help prevent abuse and exploitation, while also enhancing protections for survivors. The legislation addresses teen sexting and image-based sexual assault, commonly referred to as “revenge porn”; expands the definition of abuse to include coercive control for the purposes of obtaining a restraining order; and extends the statute of limitations for certain domestic violence offenses from six years to 15 years. “We know that abuse extends beyond the physical; emotional and psychological damage caused by manipulation and control is something this bill intends to prevent,” said State Representative Joan Meschino (D-Hull). “Equally important is that our youth receive information . . . Read More

(BOSTON) - State Representative Joan Meschino (D-Hull) continues to promote H.1677, An Act to create access to justice, which would restore the right of an individual to bring a claim in state court against a government agency in cases of disparate impact. Rep. Meschino testified in support of the bill alongside proponents of the bill at the Judiciary Committee hearing on December 5th in the State House. H.1677 would aim to provide access to justice for a number of constituencies, including those seeking environmental justice, language access, fair housing, equitable healthcare, and access to high-quality education. As of the Judiciary Committee hearing on December 5th, all of Rep. Meschino's sponsored bills have been heard in front of their respective committees. “I am encouraged by the Joint Committees’ support and interest in the legislation I have filed this session,” said Representative Meschino (D-Hull). “The bills I have filed aim to . . . Read More

(BOSTON) - This week, State Representative Joan Meschino (D-Hull) joined her colleagues in the Legislature to enact a $56.2 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), reconciling differences between the versions of the budget passed by the House of Representatives and Senate earlier this year. The FY24 conference committee report provides for historic levels of investment in education, housing, regional transportation, health care, workforce development, and more as part of a broad strategy to grow the Massachusetts economy and make the state more affordable, inclusive, and competitive. “The budget for the upcoming fiscal year reflects the Legislature’s commitment to investments that support and uplift the Commonwealth’s residents,” said State Representative Joan Meschino (D-Hull). “This budget also includes funds for various organizations in Hingham, Hull and Cohasset that will bolster their work, and I look forward to seeing the impact of those funds utilized in the 3rd Plymouth District. I . . . Read More