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HD 4341

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts sheriffs submit second-quarter 2024 jail population data for Middlesex County Correctional Facility as required by state law for legislative oversight.

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Bill Summary · HD 4341

Legislative bill overview

House Document 4341 is a data submission from the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association reporting aggregate population statistics for the Middlesex County Correctional Facility during the second quarter of 2024 (April-June). This is a routine reporting requirement mandated under Section 40 of Chapter 126 of the General Laws, which requires sheriffs to regularly submit facility population data to the legislature.

Why is this important

These population reports serve as transparency and oversight tools, allowing legislators and the public to monitor jail capacity, trends, and operational demands. The data helps inform policy decisions regarding criminal justice, facility budgeting, and potential overcrowding issues. Regular reporting creates an official record that can be used to identify systemic patterns or resource needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Data completeness and timeliness: The report was submitted in early 2025 for Q2 2024 data, creating an 8-month lag that may limit its usefulness for immediate policy decisions
  • Limited scope: This is aggregate data only—it doesn't provide demographic breakdowns or reasons for population fluctuations, which limits analysis of systemic issues
  • No mandatory legislative action: As a filed document, this creates a paper record but carries no requirement for response or remedial action even if problems are identified

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

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