Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4328

Introduced
7/30/25  

Caption

Relative to the efficient management and operation of the registries of probate

Impact

If enacted, H4328 would bring significant changes to the governance of probate registries by enhancing the power of the chief justice of the probate and family court with regard to the appointment of judicial staff. This change is expected to improve operational efficiency by reducing the potential for bureaucratic inertia and facilitating timely appointments. Additionally, the bill ensures that certain positions are maintained while eliminating administrative deputy assistant registers which may help in reallocating resources and responsibilities more effectively.

Summary

House Bill H4328 focuses on the efficient management and operation of the registries of probate within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It proposes amendments to Chapter 217 of the General Laws, specifically addressing the appointment and removal processes for various judicial and administrative positions within the probate and family court system. The bill aims to streamline the operations of the probate courts by outlining clear authority for appointing assistant registers and deputy assistant registers, as well as establishing compensation structures related to these roles.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding H4328 may raise concerns about the centralization of authority in the chief justice's office and its implications for local autonomy within county probate courts. Some stakeholders may argue that this could undermine local decision-making and responsiveness to community needs. Furthermore, the proposed compensation incentives for deputy assistant registers might become a point of debate, especially regarding funding and budget implications for the state’s judiciary as well as the potential impact on judicial staff morale and retention.

Companion Bills

MA H1673

Replaces Relative to the efficient management and operation of the registries of probate

Previously Filed As

MA H4364

Relative to the efficient management and operation of the registries of probate

MA H1813

Relative to the efficient management and operation of the registries of probate

MA S1083

Relative to the efficient management and operation of the registries of probate

MA H4171

Making appropriations for the fiscal year 2023 for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects

MA H4167

Making appropriations for the fiscal year 2023 for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects

MA H4090

Making appropriations for the fiscal year 2023 for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects

MA H4204

Making appropriations for the fiscal year 2023 for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects

MA H2829

Relative to improving the efficiency of the state low income housing tax credit

MA H3078

Relative to Treasury operations

MA S2502

Site Information & Links

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.