Bill > HB467

This bill aims to improve transparency and equity in the Maryland Parole Commission's processes by requiring the Commission's annual report to include specific data, such as the number of paroles granted or denied and the reasons for denials, disaggregated by the race of incarcerated individuals. It also mandates that incarcerated individuals receive copies of all documents the Commission will use to determine parole suitability, rather than just being allowed to examine them upon request, with limited exceptions for sensitive information. Furthermore, the bill requires the Commission to publicly record and state its reasoning and justifications for parole decisions, including votes to close hearings, and shortens the timeframe for hearing examiners to submit their written recommendations to the Commission from 21 to 14 days. The bill also clarifies that the Commission cannot permanently deny parole and establishes specific timeframes for subsequent parole hearings after a denial, ensuring individuals have regular opportunities for review. Finally, it mandates that all parole hearing recordings, after redacting victim information, be made available to the incarcerated individual and retained for a period after their release and completion of supervision.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0467?ys=2026RS