The bill amends Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 126, Section 40, to enhance the reporting requirements for jails and houses of correction. It introduces a new section titled "Overview of Quarterly Population Report for the Individual Massachusetts Sheriffs' Offices," which requires sheriffs to compile and submit quarterly reports containing various data points for each individual committed to their facilities, including probation central file number, state identification number, race and ethnicity, and type of release. The reports will be submitted to key public safety officials without any identifying information about individual inmates. Additionally, the bill establishes new definitions for critical data points and notes the limitations of the Sheriffs' Offices in reporting certain data that originates from the Trial Court.

Furthermore, the bill aims to improve the management and reporting of inmate admissions, releases, and programming within correctional facilities, particularly focusing on the collection of demographic data related to race and ethnicity. It introduces new legal language to clarify processes for inmate admissions and releases, as well as criteria for earning time credits and participating in rehabilitation programs. The bill also seeks to remove outdated legal language that may hinder effective data collection and reporting practices, ultimately enhancing transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system. By streamlining these processes and emphasizing accurate data collection, the bill aims to address disparities in incarceration and sentencing, contributing to more equitable outcomes in the justice system.