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HD 4356

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 third quarter of calendar year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association reports Q3 2024 Plymouth County jail population data as statutorily required; filed without further legislative action.

Placed on file
0
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Bill Summary · HD 4356

Legislative bill overview

HD 4356 is a procedural communication from the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association transmitting aggregate population data for the Plymouth County Correctional Facility during Q3 2024. This submission fulfills a statutory reporting requirement under Section 40 of Chapter 126 of the General Laws, which mandates regular population reporting from county correctional facilities.

Why is this important

Population data from county jails is essential for monitoring facility capacity, planning infrastructure needs, and assessing criminal justice system trends. This data informs policy decisions about detention practices, staffing levels, and resource allocation across Massachusetts' correctional system.

Potential points of contention

  • Data transparency and access: Aggregate data reports raise questions about whether detailed demographic breakdowns (race, gender, offense type) are included or publicly available for equity analysis
  • Accountability mechanisms: The report's "placed on file" status suggests limited legislative review; there is no apparent mechanism to flag overcrowding or systemic issues identified in the data
  • Timeliness: Q3 2024 data being filed in February 2025 represents a 4-5 month reporting lag, potentially limiting real-time policy responsiveness

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

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