Bill > HB186

This bill increases the size of Montana's Board of Pardons and Parole from five to six members, with specific provisions for the appointment and qualifications of the new board member. The bill requires that board members have qualifications such as a degree in criminology, at least 5 years of experience in corrections or criminal justice, or a law degree. The legislation emphasizes the importance of board members having expertise in areas like American Indian culture, mental illness, and victim awareness. The governor will appoint the sixth member within 60 days of the bill's effective date (July 1, 2025), with this initial appointee serving until January 2029 and requiring confirmation by the state senate. The new board member will be subject to the same staggered 6-year term structure as existing members, and the board will continue to operate as a quasi-judicial entity within the Department of Corrections, requiring a majority vote to implement policies or make parole and executive clemency decisions. The bill ensures a smooth transition by providing clear guidelines for the appointment and integration of the additional board member.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0038