Bill > HB256

This bill amends the Government Code to change the parole eligibility requirements for certain inmates who committed an offense when they were younger than 18 years old. The bill requires parole panels to consider the diminished culpability and hallmark features of youth when assessing the growth and maturity of these "youthful offenders" to determine if they should be released on parole. The bill also establishes specific criteria for parole panels to consider, such as the inmate's age, developmental stage, and ability to appreciate the risks of their conduct. Additionally, the bill introduces a new parole eligibility timeline for inmates serving sentences for certain serious felonies committed as a juvenile, requiring them to serve at least half of their sentence or 20 calendar years, whichever is less, before becoming eligible for parole.