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HD 4344

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 Suffolk County Correctional Facility for the second quarter of calendar year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts formalizes quarterly population reporting from Suffolk County Correctional Facility to ensure legislative oversight and criminal justice system transparency.

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Bill Summary · HD 4344

Legislative bill overview

HD 4344 is a reporting requirement that formalizes the submission of aggregate population data from the Suffolk County Correctional Facility for Q2 2024 by the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association. The bill references Section 40 of Chapter 126 of the General Laws, which establishes the legal framework for these data submissions. This appears to be a procedural bill ensuring compliance with existing statutory reporting obligations.

Why is this important

Accurate, regular reporting on correctional facility populations is essential for legislative oversight, budget planning, and understanding criminal justice system capacity and trends. These data inform policy decisions about facility management, staffing needs, and potential overcrowding issues. Public access to aggregate facility data supports transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden vs. benefit: Critics may question whether formal legislative action is necessary for routine data submissions that should already be mandated under existing law
  • Data transparency concerns: Some may advocate for more detailed breakdowns (demographics, charges, sentence lengths) rather than just aggregate population figures
  • Timeliness of reporting: The bill addresses Q2 2024 data in early 2025, raising questions about whether current quarterly reporting cycles create delays in accessing recent information for policy analysis

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

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