The bill amends Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Chapter 126, Section 40, to enhance the reporting requirements for jails and houses of correction in Suffolk County. It introduces a new section titled "Overview of Quarterly Population Report for the Individual Massachusetts Sheriffs' Offices," which mandates sheriffs to compile and submit quarterly reports detailing various data points for each individual committed to their facilities, including probation central file numbers, state identification numbers, race and ethnicity, and offense-based tracking numbers. The reports must not contain identifying information about individual inmates and are to be submitted to key public safety officials. Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions of critical data points and notes that certain required data, such as case disposition and bail amounts, are sourced from the Trial Court.
Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of tracking the demographics of individuals in custody, particularly focusing on their race and ethnicity, to promote transparency and accountability within the judicial process. It outlines provisions for the management of pre-trial and sentenced individuals, ensuring that accurate records are maintained regarding admissions and releases. The bill also proposes new programming initiatives aimed at improving emotional intelligence and recovery awareness among individuals in the correctional system, with a structured approach to track participation in these programs. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts, reduce recidivism rates, and ensure equitable treatment of all individuals within the Suffolk County correctional framework.