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HD 4347

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association files Q3 2024 population data for Berkshire County Correctional Facility as required by state law for administrative oversight purposes.

Placed on file
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Bill Summary · HD 4347

Legislative bill overview

This is a procedural filing where the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association submits aggregate population data for the Berkshire County Correctional Facility for Q3 2024, as required by state law (Chapter 126, Section 40). The bill itself is administrative documentation rather than new legislation—it represents a mandatory data reporting requirement being fulfilled.

Why is this important

Regular correctional facility population reporting supports public oversight of the criminal justice system and helps policymakers and the public understand detention trends and facility capacity utilization. This data informs decisions about resource allocation, facility management, and potential systemic issues within county corrections.

Potential points of contention

  • Data transparency gaps: While aggregate numbers are reported, detailed breakdowns by demographics, charges, or length of stay may not be publicly accessible, limiting meaningful analysis
  • Facility conditions context: Population data alone doesn't indicate whether facilities are operating at safe levels or meeting constitutional standards for inmate treatment
  • Delayed reporting cycle: Q3 2024 data being filed in February 2025 creates a significant lag between what occurred and public awareness, limiting timely policy response

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

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