Bill > HB2229

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, modifies the parole eligibility for individuals convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment in Tennessee, specifically for offenses committed between July 1, 1995, and July 1, 2020. It introduces a new provision allowing these individuals to become eligible for parole after serving 25 years, provided they meet certain criteria that can reduce their sentence by up to 35 years. These reductions can be earned through 10-year periods without serious disciplinary infractions, such as assaults or threats, and 10-year periods without drug-related offenses, like possession or distribution of controlled substances. Additional time can be deducted for successfully completing accredited postsecondary education programs leading to an associate's, bachelor's, or graduate degree, and for finishing specific programs offered by the Tennessee Department of Correction, including career exploration, victim impact, cognitive behavior therapy, family unification, and early intervention classes. The bill clarifies that these earned credits run parallel to other good behavior or program credits and are specifically applied to parole eligibility. Importantly, this provision is retroactive for those who have already met some criteria by July 1, 2026, and mandates that the parole board must grant parole if all criteria are met, removing their discretion to deny based on the crime's seriousness or perceived risk. Furthermore, the bill establishes that a life sentence for first-degree murder will automatically expire after 40 years if parole has not been granted, meaning no one will be incarcerated for more than 40 years under these circumstances.