Bill > HB16

This bill modifies the structure and appointment process for the Maryland Parole Commission, a body responsible for deciding whether incarcerated individuals are eligible for parole. Key changes include increasing the number of commissioners from ten to between 15 and 20, and establishing a new nomination process for initial appointments where a panel, composed of representatives from law enforcement, the public defender's office, state's attorneys, education, social work, mental health, substance use treatment, community organizing, and prisoner advocacy, will recommend candidates to the Governor. The bill also eliminates the role of hearing examiners, who previously assisted commissioners in parole release hearings, and transfers their duties and associated funding to the commissioners themselves, with the intent that funds previously budgeted for hearing examiner salaries will be re-budgeted for commissioner salaries. These changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0016?ys=2026RS