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HD 4783

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 Plymouth County Correctional Facility for the fourth quarter of calendar year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association must report Plymouth County jail population data for Q4 2024 to state legislature as required by law.

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Bill Summary · HD 4783

Legislative bill overview

This bill requires the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association to submit aggregate population data for the Plymouth County Correctional Facility for Q4 2024 to the state legislature. The submission is mandated under Section 40 of Chapter 126 of the General Laws, which establishes reporting requirements for county correctional facilities.

Why is this important

Correctional facility population data is used by policymakers to monitor capacity, plan resources, and assess the effectiveness of criminal justice policies. Regular reporting creates transparency about incarceration trends and helps inform decisions about facility operations, staffing, and potential reform initiatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Data interpretation variance – Different stakeholders may use the same population figures to draw conflicting conclusions about whether facilities are overcrowded, well-managed, or contributing to broader incarceration concerns
  • Incomplete context – Aggregate numbers alone don't indicate reasons for population changes (sentencing patterns, bail policies, length of stay), which could limit usefulness for policy analysis
  • Timing lag – The report covers Q4 2024 but wasn't filed until June 2025, creating a six-month delay that may limit responsiveness to emerging issues

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

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