The bill amends Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 126, Section 40, to enhance the reporting requirements for jails and houses of correction, particularly in the Middlesex County jail system. It introduces a new overview section for the Quarterly Population Report, mandating sheriffs to record and report 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 must be aggregated quarterly and submitted to public safety officials without identifying information about individual inmates. Additionally, the bill establishes new definitions for critical data terms and clarifies that certain data points, like case disposition and bail information, are managed by the Trial Court rather than the Sheriffs' Offices.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection regarding admissions and releases, including demographic information, booking dates, release dates, and earned time credits. It aims to improve transparency and accountability within the jail system by ensuring consistent data collection and reporting, which will help address potential disparities based on race and ethnicity. The proposed changes also include requirements for documenting inmate participation in rehabilitation programs, focusing on tracking demographics and program outcomes to evaluate effectiveness and reduce recidivism rates. Overall, the bill reflects a commitment to enhancing the management of the jail system and informing future policy decisions through comprehensive data analysis.