Bill > SB0737

This bill amends the Michigan Corrections Code to modify parole eligibility and procedures for prisoners, primarily focusing on changes to how and when prisoners can be considered for parole. The bill revises language regarding parole jurisdiction for prisoners serving indeterminate sentences, specifying when the parole board can review a prisoner's case based on the minimum sentence served, accounting for good time and disciplinary credits. It provides detailed provisions for prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment, establishing specific criteria for parole eligibility based on the type of crime committed, the date of the offense, and the length of time served. The bill also introduces new processes for parole hearings, including requirements for public hearings, notifications to sentencing judges and victims, and the ability for prosecutors or victims to object to parole recommendations. Notably, the bill includes special provisions for prisoners convicted of certain drug-related offenses and allows for earlier parole consideration for prisoners who have cooperated with law enforcement. The legislation uses gender-neutral language, replacing "he or she" with "the prisoner" throughout the text, and provides specific guidelines for how the parole board should evaluate parole applications for different types of offenses.