The bill amends Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 126, Section 40, to strengthen the reporting requirements for jails and houses of correction. It mandates that sheriffs collect and report detailed data for each individual committed, including identifiers such as probation central file number, state identification number, race and ethnicity, and offense-based tracking number. A new requirement for a quarterly population report is introduced, which aggregates this data without identifying individual inmates and must be submitted to public safety and legislative officials. The bill also clarifies definitions for key data points and includes a disclaimer regarding the availability of certain data, such as case disposition and bail information, which are not maintained by the Sheriffs' Offices.
Furthermore, the bill updates the handling of pre-trial and sentenced individuals in Hampshire, categorizing them based on race and ethnicity and detailing processes for admissions and releases. It specifies criteria for earned jail credits and emphasizes the importance of tracking participation in educational and rehabilitative programs aimed at reducing recidivism. The bill introduces participant statuses like "Completed," "Currently Enrolled," and "Released" to monitor progress and outcomes effectively. Overall, the proposed changes aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of correctional programming within the Hampshire correctional system, while addressing racial and ethnic disparities in the criminal justice process.