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 number, state identification number, race and ethnicity, and offense-based tracking number. These reports must be submitted to key legislative and public safety officials while ensuring that no identifying information about individual inmates is included. Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions of the identifiers used in the reports and notes that certain data points, like case disposition and bail information, are sourced from the Trial Court rather than the Sheriffs' Offices.

Furthermore, the bill proposes amendments to improve the classification and reporting of individuals in the criminal justice system, particularly regarding race and ethnicity. It introduces new legal language to include individuals identified as "Other/Unknown" in racial and ethnic classifications, thereby enhancing the inclusivity of demographic data collection. The bill also removes outdated classifications to better reflect current societal standards and the diversity of the population. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of tracking participation in educational and rehabilitative programs within Berkshire correctional facilities, ensuring systematic data collection on demographic information, program participation, and outcomes. These changes aim to improve rehabilitation efforts, promote equity, and support the successful reintegration of inmates into society.