Bill > SB2358

This bill modifies Mississippi's parole eligibility rules for nonviolent inmates by changing the language from inmates "shall" be released to "may" be released, giving the State Parole Board more discretionary power. Specifically, nonviolent inmates who meet certain conditions—including completing a parole case plan, having no serious violations in the past six months, agreeing to supervision conditions, and having an approved discharge plan—can now be considered for release on their parole-eligible date, but are not automatically guaranteed release. The bill requires the department to notify the Parole Board 30 days before the parole-eligible date about the inmate's case plan compliance. If an inmate does not meet case plan requirements, they will have a hearing to determine potential community completion. Additional hearings may be triggered by victim requests, law enforcement safety concerns, or insufficient case plan information. The Parole Board retains the authority to deny parole, mandate corrective actions, or schedule subsequent hearings if an inmate has not substantially complied with their case plan. This legislation aims to provide more flexibility in the parole process while maintaining public safety considerations. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2358.xml