Bill > HB1744

This bill modifies Pennsylvania's sentencing laws for second-degree murder, specifically addressing parole eligibility. Under the new provisions, a person convicted of second-degree murder may become eligible for parole after serving 25 years, but only if they have no felony convictions in the prior 25 years and no pending felony charges. Convictions from the same criminal episode as the murder will not be considered in this assessment. The bill excludes certain serious offenses from this parole eligibility, such as assault by a life prisoner, specific arson offenses, and witness intimidation. Additionally, the parole provision does not apply to individuals considered the "principal" in the commission of the second-degree murder, with "principal" defined by existing murder statute language. This change aims to provide a potential pathway for parole for some second-degree murder convicts while maintaining restrictions for more severe or repeat offenders. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1744