Bill > S00846

This bill amends the executive law and criminal procedure law to modify how third-party comments and victim statements are handled during parole hearings. Specifically, the bill requires that any statement made by a third party in support of or in opposition to a parole release must now be considered by the parole board when making a release decision. The bill also strengthens the confidentiality provisions for victim statements, stipulating that such statements shall be deemed confidential and made available only to the parole board for use in rendering parole decisions. Additionally, the bill updates language to use more inclusive terminology (such as replacing "he or she" with "their") and ensures that victims of certain serious crimes will be informed about their right to submit confidential impact statements. The changes aim to provide more comprehensive information to the parole board while protecting the privacy of victims and maintaining a thorough review process for potential parole release. The act will take effect 90 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for preparing necessary implementing regulations.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S846