Bill > S00342

This bill establishes the "Earned Time Act," which significantly changes how incarcerated individuals can earn time credits toward early release. The bill mandates that incarcerated individuals shall receive time allowances of up to one-half of their original sentence, credited on an annual pro-rata basis and vesting at the end of each calendar year. Unlike previous laws where time credits were discretionary, this bill requires time allowances to be granted, though they can be temporarily withheld or forfeited for specific institutional rule violations within the same calendar year. The bill introduces more transparency by requiring the Department of Corrections to report annually on instances where time credits are withheld, including detailed information about the individual, the reason for denial, and the specific rule violations. Additionally, the bill provides an appeals process for incarcerated individuals if their time credits are withheld and ensures that once credits are vested, they cannot be canceled. The changes apply retroactively and must be implemented within 90 days of the law's passage, potentially providing significant relief and incentives for rehabilitation for many incarcerated individuals.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S342