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HD 5319

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 Franklin County Correctional Facility for the second quarter of calendar year 2025

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association submits Franklin County Correctional Facility population data for Q2 2025 as required by state law.

Placed on file
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Bill Summary · HD 5319

Legislative bill overview

HD 5319 is a routine administrative communication from the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association reporting aggregate population data for the Franklin County Correctional Facility during the second quarter of 2025. The bill fulfills a statutory reporting requirement under Chapter 126, Section 40 of Massachusetts General Law, which mandates regular population reporting for county correctional facilities.

Why is this important

Population data from correctional facilities informs policy decisions about facility capacity, resource allocation, and criminal justice planning. Regular reporting creates a public record of incarceration trends and helps legislators assess whether facilities are operating within intended capacity and whether additional resources or reforms are needed.

Potential points of contention

  • Data transparency: While the bill mandates reporting, it doesn't specify what population metrics are included (e.g., average daily population, peak capacity, demographic breakdowns), which could limit meaningful public scrutiny.
  • No actionable recommendations: The bill appears to be a data submission only, without analysis or recommendations, potentially limiting its utility for policy discussions about overcrowding or facility conditions.
  • Limited scope: Reporting only one facility for one quarter provides a narrow snapshot; broader statewide or multi-year comparisons may be necessary to identify systemic issues.

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

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