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S 1756

An Act to repeal pay-to-stay fees

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Gómez and 1 co-sponsor

S 1756 repeals Massachusetts' inmate pay-to-stay fees, eliminating charges incarcerated people pay for housing and services while removing a corrections funding stream.

Accompanied a study order, see S2798
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Bill Summary · S 1756

Legislative bill overview

S 1756 seeks to repeal Massachusetts' pay-to-stay fees, which are charges imposed on incarcerated individuals for housing and services while in state custody. The bill directly eliminates these fees that currently generate revenue from the prison system while placing financial burden on inmates and their families.

Why is this important

Pay-to-stay fees significantly impact low-income individuals and families already struggling financially, often creating debt that persists after release and complicates reentry. The fees also raise questions about the state's responsibility to provide basic custody services without additional cost-shifting to vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • State revenue impact: Eliminating these fees removes a funding source for corrections operations; the bill doesn't specify replacement revenue mechanisms
  • Fairness arguments: Supporters argue citizens shouldn't pay for incarceration; opponents may contend users should share costs, similar to other services
  • Implementation details: Unclear whether repeal applies retroactively to existing debts or only prospectively, affecting hundreds or thousands of current inmates with outstanding balances

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

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