Bill > H2638

This bill reforms the responsibilities and procedures of parole board agents in Massachusetts, expanding their role in supporting and monitoring individuals released on parole. The bill requires parole agents to proactively engage with incarcerated individuals at least 180 days before their release hearing, helping them develop viable home and transition plans. Agents must now communicate monthly with potential parolees, develop relationships with community housing and behavioral health providers, participate in facility-level meetings, and ensure released individuals have proper identification. The Department of Correction must now provide comprehensive case summaries for each parole-eligible individual, including detailed information about their incarceration, behavior, health, treatment participation, and identified needs. Additionally, parole agents must complete a risk assessment and personalized case plan with each parolee within 30 business days of release, addressing individual factors and social determinants like employment, housing, and healthcare. These case plans and risk assessments will be reviewed and updated every six months, with face-to-face contacts between agents and parolees focused on the specific goals and needs identified in the case plan. The overall aim is to provide more comprehensive support and monitoring to improve successful reintegration of individuals into the community after incarceration.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2638