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Bill

HD 5262

A communication from the Department of Correction (see Section 1(p) and Section 6 of Chapter 124 and Section 1B of Chapter 127 of the General Laws) submitting its calendar year 2023 annual report

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Bill HD 5262 submits the 2023 annual report of Massachusetts' correctional system, ensuring transparency on operations, population stats, and financial data for 6,000 inmates.

Placed on file
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Bill Summary · HD 5262

Summary of Bill HD 5262

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HD 5262
  • Title: A communication from the Department of Correction submitting its calendar year 2023 annual report
  • Status: Placed on file
  • Introduced: November 13, 2025
  • Classification: Proposed bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill HD 5262 serves to formally submit the annual report of the Massachusetts Department of Correction for the calendar year 2023. This report is mandated by specific sections of the Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. Ch. 124, Sec. 6 and Ch. 127, Sec. 1B) and aims to provide transparency and accountability regarding the operations and conditions within the state's correctional facilities.

Key Provisions

The report includes several critical components that outline the Department's activities, goals, and performance metrics, including:

  • Overview of the Department:

    • Description of the Massachusetts Department of Correction, its vision, core values, and organizational structure.
  • Population Statistics:

    • Detailed charts and statistics regarding the incarcerated population across 15 state facilities, including security classifications (maximum, medium, minimum, and pre-release).
  • Institutional Overview:

    • Specific information on various facilities, including:
    • Boston Pre-Release Center (BPRC): Focus on education and reintegration for minimum and pre-release individuals.
    • Bridgewater State Hospital (BSH): A psychiatric facility for males requiring strict security.
    • Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC): Provides substance use services in a therapeutic environment.
  • Financial Data:

    • Annual cost per person for each facility, highlighting the financial implications of correctional care.
  • Strategic Plan:

    • Insights into the Department's strategic objectives aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting positive behavioral change among incarcerated individuals.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Incarcerated Individuals: Approximately 6,000 individuals housed in state facilities.
- Correctional Staff: Professionals responsible for the care and rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals.
- State Government: The report informs policymakers and the public about the operations and effectiveness of the correctional system.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on November 13, 2025, and has been placed on file, indicating that it will not proceed further in the legislative process at this time. The report itself is a routine submission that reflects the Department's compliance with legal requirements.

Conclusion

Bill HD 5262 is an essential communication from the Massachusetts Department of Correction that provides a comprehensive overview of the state's correctional system for the year 2023. By detailing operational statistics, financial data, and strategic objectives, the report aims to foster transparency and accountability in the management of correctional facilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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