Story perspectives

Massachusetts Law Unlocks Records for Disability Abuse Survivors

3/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Massachusetts passed a law allowing individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to access records from state institutions.
The law aims to illuminate abuse and neglect suffered by generations of people with disabilities.
Advocates say records, including personal histories and artwork, humanize those who suffered in institutions.
The legislation follows a Special Commission on State Institutions that recommended memorialization and an official apology from the governor.

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Story summary

Massachusetts passed a law allowing individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to access records from state institutions.
The law aims to illuminate abuse and neglect suffered by generations of people with disabilities.
Advocates say records, including personal histories and artwork, humanize those who suffered in institutions.
The legislation follows a Special Commission on State Institutions that recommended memorialization and an official apology from the governor.