Bill > S05586

This bill amends New York state law to expand the rights of crime victims' family members and interested parties during the parole process. Specifically, the bill allows family members of a crime victim (defined as immediate family members at least 16 years old) and designated interested parties to submit victim impact statements and make oral statements directly to the parole board members who will decide whether a defendant is released. The bill clarifies that these oral statements should be made to the actual board members who will determine release, rather than being reported second-hand. An "interested party" is defined as a person designated by the sentencing judge as having sufficient involvement in the case to be considered relevant to the parole process. The bill also requires that the parole board provide toll-free telephone access for these family members and interested parties and ensures that their statements will be maintained in the file reviewed during parole consideration. These changes aim to give more voice and participation to those affected by a crime during the parole review process, allowing them to provide input that could potentially influence the board's decision about releasing an incarcerated individual.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5586