WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 4781

A communication from the Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association (see Section 40 of Chapter 126 of the General Laws) submitting the aggregate data on the population of the Middlesex County Correctional Facility for the fourth quarter of calendar year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association reports Q4 2024 Middlesex County Correctional Facility population data as required by state law, enabling legislative oversight.

Placed on file
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 4781

Legislative bill overview

HD 4781 is a procedural communication from the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association submitting aggregate population data for the Middlesex County Correctional Facility for Q4 2024. This is a routine reporting requirement mandated under Section 40 of Chapter 126 of Massachusetts General Laws, requiring sheriffs to provide quarterly census information to the legislature.

Why is this important

Correctional facility population data informs legislative oversight of the criminal justice system, helps identify capacity issues, and provides baseline metrics for policy decisions regarding incarceration, bail reform, and facility management. Regular reporting ensures transparency and accountability in how county detention facilities operate.

Potential points of contention

  • Data interpretation: Raw population numbers alone lack context about underlying causes (e.g., bail reform impacts, charging practices, court delays) that different stakeholders interpret differently
  • Incomplete picture: Quarterly snapshots may obscure trends; critics may argue single-quarter data is insufficient for meaningful policy analysis
  • Use for advocacy: Both criminal justice reformers and law-and-order advocates could cite the same data to support opposing policy positions

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

Sign in to ask a question.