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HD 4346

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 Barnstable County Correctional Facility for the third quarter of calendar year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association reports Q3 2024 population data for Barnstable County jail as statutorily required.

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Bill Summary · HD 4346

Legislative bill overview

HD 4346 is a required reporting document from the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association submitting aggregate population data for the Barnstable County Correctional Facility for Q3 2024. This is a routine statutory submission mandated under Section 40 of Chapter 126 of Massachusetts General Laws, which establishes ongoing reporting requirements for county correctional facilities.

Why is this important

Aggregate population data from correctional facilities serves as a baseline metric for understanding facility utilization, capacity management, and potential overcrowding concerns. These reports inform policy discussions about criminal justice resource allocation, facility adequacy, and whether current infrastructure meets regional detention needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Data transparency vs. privacy: While aggregate data protects individual privacy, some advocates argue detailed demographic breakdowns (by race, offense type, length of stay) would better serve criminal justice reform discussions
  • Accountability gaps: Routine data submissions may be filed without substantive legislative review, potentially allowing systemic issues to go unaddressed
  • Facility conditions: Population figures alone don't capture facility conditions, staffing levels, or operational challenges that raw numbers might mask

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

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