Bill > HB1030

This bill mandates that the Virginia Parole Board (VPB) develop and utilize discretionary parole eligibility guidelines for every prisoner eligible for parole, which will be used in conjunction with existing investigations into a prisoner's history, conduct, and character. These guidelines, outlined in a new section of law, will assign points based on factors such as compliance with case plans, disciplinary infractions, program participation and completion, verified residential and employment plans, length of time served, and age at the time of the offense. Prisoners scoring in Tier 1 (50+ points) will receive favorable consideration, Tier 2 (25-49 points) may be considered suitable, and Tier 3 (0-25 points) are presumed unsuitable, though the VPB retains discretion and must provide written explanations for deviations from these recommendations, especially for Tier 1 or Tier 3 scores. The bill also makes minor adjustments to existing parole eligibility calculations, such as changing "twelve" to "12" and clarifying the definition of "at liberty" for prior commitments. Additionally, it requires that parole reviews include a live interview and the completion of these new discretionary parole criteria guidelines.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB1030