No. Incestuous relationships, including dating between siblings, are criminalized under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 17. The statute explicitly prohibits consensual sexual relations between siblings, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to fines. Local district attorneys enforce these provisions, and recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to strengthen penalties for familial sexual conduct, reflecting heightened scrutiny by the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General.
Key Regulations for Dating Siblings in Massachusetts
- Criminalization of Consanguinity: Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 272, § 17) criminalizes sexual relations between siblings, regardless of consent, classifying it as a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment or a $1,000 fine.
- No Exceptions for Adoption: The statute extends to adopted siblings, as defined in M.G.L. c. 210, § 6, treating them as biological siblings for legal purposes under incest prohibitions.
- Enforcement by Local DA Offices: Prosecutions are handled by county district attorneys, with the Suffolk County DA’s office actively pursuing such cases in 2025 under directives from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety.
Legal Risks Beyond Criminal Liability: Even non-sexual sibling relationships may trigger mandatory reporting obligations under M.G.L. c. 119, § 51A, if evidence suggests potential harm or exploitation, particularly in cases involving minors or vulnerable adults. The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) monitors such scenarios, aligning with 2026 updates to the state’s child protection framework.