Bill > S1728

This bill reforms parole supervision by introducing several key changes to improve fairness and support for parolees. It establishes that parole conditions must be directly and reasonably related to the original crime of conviction, and no more restrictive than necessary to ensure community safety. The bill limits the parole board's ability to impose overly broad restrictions, such as prohibiting general associations or mandating alcohol/drug testing without a clear connection to the original offense. It introduces a system of "compliance credits" where parolees can earn up to 31 days per month off their supervision for good behavior, and provides a presumptive right to parole termination after three years of law-abiding community living. The bill also creates a new hearing process for parole violations that requires: (1) issuing a summons instead of a warrant, (2) holding initial and final hearings with due process protections, (3) requiring clear and convincing evidence for violation findings, and (4) prohibiting parole revocation for non-criminal violations or substance use disorder-related infractions. Additionally, the bill mandates that if the parole board requires residential programs or housing, these must be available in the parolee's county and supportive of their rehabilitation goals.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1728