The bill amends Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 126, Section 40, to enhance the reporting requirements for sheriffs regarding jail and house of correction populations. It introduces a new section titled "Overview of Quarterly Population Report for the Individual Massachusetts Sheriffs' Offices," which mandates that sheriffs compile and submit quarterly reports detailing various data points for each individual committed to their facilities, including identifiers such as probation central file numbers, state identification numbers, race and ethnicity, and offense-based tracking numbers. The reports are to be submitted to key public safety officials and committees to ensure transparency and accountability. Additionally, the bill includes new definitions for critical data points and notes the limitations of sheriffs' offices in reporting certain data, such as case disposition and bail information, which are maintained by the Trial Court.

Furthermore, the bill proposes amendments to existing laws regarding the management and reporting of inmate admissions and releases, particularly in Plymouth. It emphasizes the collection of demographic data, including race and ethnicity, and introduces new legal language to clarify data collection requirements while removing outdated provisions. The bill also mandates the inclusion of additional racial and ethnic categories to enhance representation and improve data analysis. Additionally, it focuses on the programming and participation of individuals in correctional facilities, requiring detailed reporting on participant demographics and program types. By implementing these changes, the bill aims to modernize reporting practices, promote inclusivity, and foster a rehabilitative environment within correctional facilities, ultimately contributing to better oversight and lower recidivism rates.