Bill > SB0117

This bill creates a compassionate release mechanism for certain convicted individuals with serious medical conditions, allowing them to petition for sentence modification without the prosecuting attorney's consent under specific circumstances. The bill defines two key medical categories: "chronic medical condition" and "terminally ill or gravely disabled." For a chronic medical condition, this means a person with age-related medical diagnoses, significantly diminished health, and inability to receive adequate treatment in a correctional facility. "Terminally ill or gravely disabled" includes individuals diagnosed with terminal illnesses having less than 18 months to live, specific end-stage diseases like metastatic cancer or ALS, or those unable to complete basic daily activities and confined to a bed or chair. Eligible individuals must meet specific criteria, such as being terminally ill, at least 65 years old with certain sentencing and service conditions, and may petition only once without prosecutorial consent (with a potential second petition if medical evidence shows substantial deterioration). The court must consider the person's reentry plans, including living arrangements and medical care, and can grant, dismiss, or hold a hearing on the petition. The bill explicitly prevents reducing sentences below the original sentencing authorization and provides additional protections for plea agreement sentences, aiming to balance compassionate release with judicial and prosecutorial oversight.

Justice

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/117/details