The bill amends Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 126, Section 40, to enhance the reporting requirements for jails and houses of correction, particularly focusing on the Suffolk County jail system. It introduces a new section titled "Overview of Quarterly Population Report for the Individual Massachusetts Sheriffs' Offices," which mandates sheriffs to compile and submit quarterly reports detailing various data points for each individual committed to their facilities. This includes demographic information such as race and ethnicity, probation central file numbers, and offense-based tracking numbers, while ensuring that reports do not contain identifying information about individual inmates. The bill also clarifies terminology used in the reporting process and notes that certain data points, like case disposition and bail information, are maintained by the Trial Court rather than the Sheriffs' Offices.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection and reporting practices, particularly regarding the racial and ethnic backgrounds of individuals in the correctional system. It aims to streamline the process of documenting admissions and releases, including the length of time served and earned credits for good behavior. By establishing standardized categories for racial and ethnic identification, the bill seeks to improve the accuracy and consistency of demographic statistics, ultimately contributing to more informed policy decisions and addressing potential disparities in treatment within the justice system. Overall, the proposed changes are intended to enhance transparency, accountability, and equity in the management of the correctional system.