The proposed bill establishes the Massachusetts Office of Restorative Justice within the Executive Office for Administration and Finance, aimed at enhancing restorative justice initiatives throughout the state. This office will be led by a director with expertise in restorative justice and will act as the primary administrative and funding body for publicly sponsored restorative justice programs. It will support various government branches and community organizations in developing and expanding restorative justice initiatives, focusing on victim-centered practices and establishing best practice standards. The bill also creates a statewide advisory committee to guide the office, ensuring diverse representation from both government and community members.

Additionally, the bill includes updates to the membership of the Restorative Justice Advisory Committee (RJAC), which will monitor community-based restorative justice programs and make legislative recommendations. The RJAC's mission is to promote restorative justice education and practices that emphasize healing and accountability. The bill allocates $3 million annually for the office's operations, grants, and training, while allowing the director to establish fees for services and accept various funding sources. By institutionalizing restorative justice as a public resource, the bill aims to foster a more equitable approach to justice that prioritizes rehabilitation and empowers communities to collaboratively address harm.