New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00321

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Requires the parole board to grant parole to incarcerated individuals who successfully participate in a temporary release program for two years without interruption immediately prior to appearance before the board.

Summary

Bill A00321 amends the executive law to establish a new provision regarding the parole process for incarcerated individuals in New York. Specifically, it mandates that individuals who have successfully participated in a temporary release program for a continuous period of two years immediately prior to their appearance before the parole board shall be granted parole. This change aims to incentivize participation in rehabilitation programs and streamline the parole process for eligible individuals.

Impact

The bill will impact state laws by altering the criteria under which the parole board grants parole, specifically by introducing a new requirement related to participation in temporary release programs. This could potentially lead to an increase in the number of individuals granted parole, thereby affecting the overall prison population and the resources allocated for rehabilitation programs. It may also necessitate adjustments in the operations of the parole board to accommodate the new guidelines.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00321 appears to be generally supportive, as it aligns with ongoing discussions about criminal justice reform and rehabilitation. Advocates for the bill argue that it promotes positive behavior among incarcerated individuals and supports their reintegration into society. However, there may be concerns regarding public safety and the implications of releasing individuals who may not have fully addressed their underlying issues.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from concerns about the effectiveness of temporary release programs and whether they adequately prepare individuals for successful reintegration into society. Critics may argue that automatic parole based on program participation alone could overlook other important factors, such as the nature of the original offense or the individual's overall behavior while incarcerated. Supporters of the bill, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of rehabilitation and the potential for reducing recidivism through structured programs.

Companion Bills

NY S00251

Same As Requires the parole board to grant parole to incarcerated individuals who successfully participate in a temporary release program for two years without interruption immediately prior to appearance before the board.

Previously Filed As

NY A00265

Requires the parole board to grant parole to incarcerated individuals who successfully participate in a temporary release program for two years without interruption immediately prior to appearance before the board.

NY S00459

Requires the parole board to grant parole to incarcerated individuals who successfully participate in a temporary release program for two years without interruption immediately prior to appearance before the board.

NY S00251

Requires the parole board to grant parole to incarcerated individuals who successfully participate in a temporary release program for two years without interruption immediately prior to appearance before the board.

NY S07810

Adds additional information to reporting requirements for temporary release programs including the number of incarcerated individuals denied participation in each temporary release program and the reasons for denial.

NY SB1446

An act to amend Section 3041 of the Penal Code, and to amend Section 6601 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to incarcerated persons.

NY S04645

Requires unanimous agreement by the parole board to release an incarcerated individual on parole.

NY HB229

Parole eligibility; revise for certain offenders and require Parole Board hearing before release of certain inmates.

NY A4288

Revises requirements for parole release and violations of parole; repeals law relating to violations committed by parolee released due to overcrowding.

NY SB1506

Relating to the frequency with which the Board of Pardons and Paroles reconsiders inmates for release on parole.

NY SB157

Pardons and Paroles Board; allow inmates to participate in parole hearing virtually

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.