Bill > HB2322

This bill establishes the "Youthful Offender Sentencing Reform and Accountability Act", which significantly reforms sentencing and parole opportunities for individuals who were under 20 years old at the time of their offense. The legislation prohibits automatic life sentences without parole for young offenders, instead mandating that courts can only impose such a sentence if there are "exceptional circumstances" (such as multiple victims or extreme premeditation), and requires that most young offenders become eligible for parole after serving no more than 25 years. The bill applies retroactively to sentences imposed before, on, or after August 28, 2026, with judges having discretion to prevent retroactive application if it would cause manifest injustice. When considering parole, the board must evaluate factors including the offender's remorse, educational achievements, rehabilitation program participation, institutional conduct, psychological assessments, and evidence of personal growth and readiness for reintegration. The legislation also ensures that victims and their families are notified of and can participate in parole hearings, providing them an opportunity to submit testimony about the offender's potential release. Critically, the law requires sentencing courts to consider the offender's youth, maturity, background, and potential for rehabilitation when determining an appropriate sentence.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2322&year=2026&code=R