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H 4028

An Act to return DOC and Parole to Health and Human Services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Russell Holmes

H 4028 transfers Massachusetts Department of Correction and Parole Board from current placement into Department of Health and Human Services to restructure criminal justice administration.

Accompanied a study order, see H5183
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Bill Summary · H 4028

Legislative bill overview

H 4028 proposes transferring the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) and Parole Board from their current organizational placement back under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This represents a significant reorganization of state government structure regarding criminal justice and reentry services administration.

Why this is important

The bill addresses which state agency oversees incarceration, parole supervision, and reentry programs—functions affecting thousands of incarcerated individuals, parolees, and public safety outcomes. Organizational placement influences policy priorities, funding allocation, and whether these functions are treated primarily as criminal justice or social/health services matters.

Potential points of contention

  • Mission alignment debate: Whether corrections belongs under health/social services (emphasizing rehabilitation) or maintains separate accountability structure (emphasizing security and public safety)
  • Service coordination vs. autonomy: Integrating DOC/Parole with HHS could improve mental health and substance abuse services access, but may dilute focus on corrections-specific operations
  • Implementation complexity: Transferring large agencies involves significant operational, budgetary, and personnel challenges with uncertain transition costs and timeline

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

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