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HD 4782

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association files Q4 2024 population data for Norfolk County jail, fulfilling mandatory legislative reporting requirement under state law.

Placed on file
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Bill Summary · HD 4782

Legislative bill overview

This bill is a routine administrative filing from the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association reporting aggregate population data for the Norfolk County Correctional Facility for Q4 2024. It fulfills a statutory requirement under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 126, Section 40, which mandates regular reporting of jail population statistics to the legislature.

Why is this important

Population data from correctional facilities informs legislative oversight of the criminal justice system, including budget planning, capacity management, and policy evaluation. Regular reporting creates transparency about jail conditions and populations, which is essential for accountability and evidence-based policymaking regarding detention practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Data interpretation: Legislators may disagree on what the population numbers reveal about overcrowding, systemic issues, or the need for reform versus the need for increased funding
  • Limited scope: This is aggregate data only; it doesn't provide details on demographics, lengths of stay, or reasons for incarceration, which some may argue limits meaningful analysis
  • Routine vs. substantive: Some may view this as purely procedural record-keeping with minimal policy implications, while others see it as foundational data for broader criminal justice discussions

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

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