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Bill

SD 2920

Bristol County Jail and House of Correction Complete Inspection Package 5-21-25

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Summary of SD 2920: Bristol County Jail and House of Correction Complete Inspection Package 5-21-25 OverviewThis proposed bill would mandate a comprehensive inspection and review o

Placed on file
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Bill Summary · SD 2920

Summary of SD 2920: Bristol County Jail and House of Correction Complete Inspection Package 5-21-25

Overview

This proposed bill would mandate a comprehensive inspection and review of the Bristol County Jail and House of Correction in Massachusetts. The inspection would assess the facility's compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and standards related to the operation of a county correctional institution.

Key Provisions

  • Requires the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) to conduct a complete, detailed inspection of the Bristol County Jail and House of Correction by May 21, 2025.
  • The inspection must cover all aspects of the facility's operations, including:
    • Facility conditions and maintenance
    • Inmate housing, care, and services
    • Staff training and conduct
    • Health and safety protocols
    • Records and documentation
    • Grievance and disciplinary procedures
    • Programming and rehabilitation efforts
  • Mandates that the DOC produce a comprehensive report detailing its findings and any recommended corrective actions.
  • Requires the Bristol County Sheriff's Office to provide the DOC full access and cooperation during the inspection process.
  • Establishes a timeline for the Sheriff's Office to implement any necessary reforms identified in the DOC's inspection report.

Potential Impact

  • Aims to ensure the Bristol County Jail and House of Correction is operating in compliance with all relevant laws and standards for the humane and effective treatment of incarcerated individuals.
  • Could result in the identification of issues or deficiencies within the facility that need to be addressed.
  • May prompt reforms or improvements to the jail's policies, procedures, staffing, programming, or infrastructure based on the DOC's inspection findings.
  • Could increase transparency and accountability around the management and operations of the county correctional facility.

Procedural Details

  • This bill has been placed on file, meaning it has been formally submitted but not yet scheduled for a hearing or vote.
  • If enacted, the DOC would have until May 21, 2025 to complete the required inspection and report.
  • The Bristol County Sheriff's Office would then be expected to implement any necessary changes within a reasonable timeframe following the report's release.

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

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