Bill > S1707

This bill aims to improve access to medical parole for prisoners who are terminally ill or permanently incapacitated by modifying existing Massachusetts law. The bill redefines "permanent incapacitation" as an irreversible medical condition and "terminal illness" as a condition likely to cause death within 18 months, as determined by a licensed physician. It establishes a more comprehensive process for considering medical parole, requiring superintendents and sheriffs to review petitions from prisoners, their advocates, or medical providers within 21 days. The bill mandates annual cognitive assessments for prisoners over 55 and requires a detailed risk assessment that considers the prisoner's current medical condition and potential for rehabilitation. The commissioner must make a decision within 45 days, and medical parole shall be granted unless there is clear and convincing evidence that the prisoner poses a violent risk. The bill also ensures that decisions are made without bias, provides for expedited processing for critically ill prisoners, and allows for continued supervision by the parole board. Additionally, the bill requires detailed reporting on medical parole applications, including demographic information, to promote transparency and accountability in the process.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1707