New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A07151

Introduced
3/21/25  
Refer
3/21/25  

Caption

Requires the membership of the state board of parole, and parole hearing officers to be composed of a proportionate share of residents of each county to reflect the state's incarcerated individual population.

Summary

Bill A07151 proposes amendments to the executive law regarding the composition of the state board of parole and parole hearing officers. Specifically, it mandates that the membership of these bodies reflect the demographic distribution of the incarcerated population across the state. This means that the proportion of board members and hearing officers from each county must align with the ratio of incarcerated individuals from those counties relative to the total state population. The bill aims to ensure that the parole process is representative of the communities affected by incarceration.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would alter the appointment process for members of the state board of parole and parole hearing officers, requiring a demographic alignment with the incarcerated population. This could lead to a more equitable representation of various communities within the parole system, potentially influencing the decisions made by these bodies and addressing concerns about fairness and bias in parole hearings. The bill may also necessitate changes in how appointments are made and could affect the overall governance of parole in New York.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A07151 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with discussions highlighting the importance of representation in the parole system. Supporters argue that this change is necessary for fairness and accountability, while some stakeholders express concerns about the practical implications of implementing such demographic requirements. However, there have been no recorded votes or formal opposition noted in the available context.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the feasibility of ensuring proportional representation based on the incarcerated population, as well as potential pushback from those who believe that such demographic requirements may complicate the appointment process. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups support the bill for its potential to enhance fairness, while others question whether it could inadvertently lead to politicization of parole decisions.

Companion Bills

NY S02549

Same As Requires the membership of the state board of parole, and parole hearing officers to be composed of a proportionate share of residents of each county to reflect the state's incarcerated individual population.

Previously Filed As

NY S02400

Requires the membership of the state board of parole, and parole hearing officers to be composed of a proportionate share of residents of each county to reflect the state's incarcerated individual population.

NY S02549

Requires the membership of the state board of parole, and parole hearing officers to be composed of a proportionate share of residents of each county to reflect the state's incarcerated individual population.

NY S05802

Relates to incarcerated individual interviews by the state board of parole; requires such parole board interviews of incarcerated individuals to be conducted in person and in the correctional facility where such incarcerated individual is housed.

NY HB3430

Relating to the notification of the parole hearing and the victim’s right to be heard allowing other notified persons listed on the parole hearing form to be allowed to submit not only written statements, but also speak at the parole board hearings

NY SB24

Restoration of Voting Rights; Pardons and Paroles Board required to post application for individuals seeking restoration; board required to notify individuals and Secretary of State when voting rights restored

NY HB88

Board of Pardons and Paroles; probation and parole officers specified as state law enforcement officers

NY HB31

Require electronic recordings of all parole board hearings

NY S01412

Allows for the removal of members of the state board of parole by a majority vote in the senate and the assembly; requires three or more members of such board personally interview potential parolees; requires that the determination to parole an incarcerated individual be unanimous.

NY S03024

Allows for the removal of members of the state board of parole by a majority vote in the senate and the assembly; requires three or more members of such board personally interview potential parolees; requires that the determination to parole an incarcerated individual be unanimous.

NY A07532

Allows for the removal of members of the state board of parole by a majority vote in the senate and the assembly; requires three or more members of such board personally interview potential parolees; requires that the determination to parole an incarcerated individual be unanimous.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.