Bill > S0237

This bill restructures the Parole Board by establishing a full-time chair and four members, and provides the board with a staff attorney and an additional administrative assistant, while also mandating regular training for its members. It requires the Parole Board to submit its budget directly to the Governor, and clarifies that an offender sentenced to a minimum term must have no pending criminal charges to be eligible for parole. The bill also enhances victims' rights in parole hearings by ensuring they are informed of hearings and decisions, and allowing them to testify without the inmate present unless waived. Furthermore, it permits a parolee to voluntarily relinquish their parole status and to benefit from earned time, which is a system that reduces an inmate's sentence for good behavior.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.237