Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2386

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Prohibiting the participation of healthcare professionals in the torture and abuse of prisoners

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would introduce significant amendments to Chapter 112 of the Massachusetts General Laws, tightening the ethical standards governing healthcare professionals working with prisoners. It legislates that professionals cannot engage in any relationship or actions that contribute to torture or abusive practices, thus ensuring that their roles remain centered on evaluating, treating, and protecting the health of prisoners. This could fundamentally shift the responsibilities and moral obligations of healthcare providers operating in correctional facilities, reinforcing the importance of adhering to both ethical and legal standards.

Summary

House Bill 2386 aims to prohibit healthcare professionals from participating in the torture and abusive treatment of prisoners in Massachusetts. The bill defines 'health care professional' broadly to include various licensed or certified individuals in health-related fields. Torture is characterized by actions inflicting severe pain or suffering to extract information, punish, or intimidate individuals, while 'abusive treatment' aligns with international human rights standards and constitutional protections against cruel or unusual punishment. By establishing clear definitions and prohibitions, the bill seeks to enhance accountability within healthcare practices in correctional settings.

Contention

The introduction of HB 2386 may lead to discussions around the balance between maintaining security in correctional facilities and safeguarding the rights and dignity of prisoners. Proponents argue that the legislation is a necessary step to uphold human rights and prevent complicity in torture, while opponents may voice concerns about its implications for prison management and security measures, especially regarding interrogation processes. Additionally, there could be debates about the practical enforcement of the bill's provisions and how these standards will be monitored within the corrections system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H3619

Prohibiting the participation of healthcare professionals in the torture and abuse of prisoners

MA S1402

Improving healthcare delivery for underserved residents of the commonwealth

MA H72

To protect against deep fakes used to facilitate criminal or torturous conduct

MA H1220

Relative to healthcare industry recruitment and education for the 21st Century

MA S1511

To provide criminal justice reform protections to all prisoners in segregated confinement

MA H2128

Providing safeguards for home healthcare workers

MA S1472

Providing safeguards for home healthcare workers

MA H978

Relative to promoting healthcare access and affordability for patients

MA S612

Relative to promoting healthcare access and affordability for patients

MA H4066

Relative to pharmacists as healthcare providers

Similar Bills

MA H3619

Prohibiting the participation of healthcare professionals in the torture and abuse of prisoners

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NY S07865

Prohibits participation in torture of incarcerated individuals by health professionals; prohibits a health care professional from engaging, assisting or planning the torture of an incarcerated individual; requires health care professionals to report torture.

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Prohibits participation in torture of incarcerated individuals by health professionals; prohibits a health care professional from engaging, assisting or planning the torture of an incarcerated individual; requires health care professionals to report torture.

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