Bill > H1805

This bill aims to address structural racism in the parole process in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. Expanding the composition of the parole board to include at least 3 members with experience in fields like psychiatry, psychology, social work, or substance use treatment, as well as at least 1 member who has successfully completed the parole process. 2. Requiring the parole board to only impose conditions of parole that specifically address the individual's characteristics and the crime they committed, with clear evidence that the conditions would have a rehabilitative effect or serve a legitimate public safety goal. 3. Mandating the parole board to collect and publish detailed data on parole violations, revocations, disciplinary infractions, and the demographics of individuals going through the parole process, as well as the demographics of parole board employees. 4. Requiring the parole board to issue a detailed record of decision for all parole cases, including instructions for how inmates can improve their chances of being granted parole. 5. Requiring the parole board to conduct a public hearing for every eligible parolee no later than 90 days before their parole eligibility date and issue a decision 30 days before the eligibility date. The overall goal of the bill is to increase transparency, accountability, and equity in the parole process in Massachusetts.