Bill > SB255

This bill introduces the "Second Look Act," which allows certain inmates in the custody of the Kansas Secretary of Corrections to petition for a resentencing hearing after serving a specified period of their sentence. Eligibility for petitioning depends on the inmate's age at the time of the offense, with different waiting periods for inmates under 25 (10 years), between 25-50 (15 years), over 50 (10 years), veterans whose status was not considered at sentencing (10 years), and those who have completed required rehabilitative programming (10 years). Inmates can also petition if a new law would have reduced their sentence if made retroactive. The petition must be filed in the original county of conviction and include specific personal and case details. The court will set a hearing and notify the county attorney, who must then inform any known victims or their families, who have the right to testify but are not compelled to do so. If the court finds good cause, it may reduce the sentence length, move the inmate to postrelease supervision, or discharge the remainder of the sentence, though mandatory minimum terms are excluded. If a petition is denied, the inmate must wait five years before filing again, unless the court specifies otherwise. The act aims to provide a mechanism for potential sentence reconsideration based on factors like age, rehabilitation, and changes in law.

Justice

Federal and State Affairs (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb255/