Massachusetts lawmakers have closed a long-criticized loophole in state consent laws, making it illegal for adults in positions of power—such as teachers, coaches, and mentors—to engage in sexual activity with 16- and 17-year-olds under their authority.
The measure, tucked into the recently passed state budget, recognizes the power imbalance in these relationships. Previously, Massachusetts set the general age of consent at 16 with no exceptions for authority figures, unlike most other states. This allowed adults to claim a teenager’s agreement was valid consent, even in grooming cases, leaving prosecutors without a clear path in many situations.
The change deems minors under 18 incapable of consenting when the adult holds or previously held supervisory or custodial authority (including teachers, substitutes, coaches, tutors, paraprofessionals, and mandated reporters in school settings). The prohibition applies even after the formal role ends, with penalties of up to 20 years for rape and 10 years for indecent assault and battery…