New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02549

Introduced
1/21/25  
Refer
1/21/25  

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 S02549 seeks to amend the executive law regarding the composition of the state board of parole and parole hearing officers. Specifically, it mandates that the membership of the board and the hearing officers be proportionate to the incarcerated population of each county relative to the total state population. This change aims to ensure that the representation on the parole board reflects the demographics of the incarcerated individuals, promoting fairness and equity in parole decisions.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would alter the current structure of the state board of parole, requiring adjustments in the appointment process to ensure that members and hearing officers are selected from various counties in a manner that mirrors the distribution of incarcerated individuals. This could lead to a more diverse board that is better equipped to understand the unique circumstances of parole applicants from different regions, potentially impacting parole outcomes and the overall justice process in New York.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S02549 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with discussions highlighting the importance of equitable representation on the parole board. However, there may be concerns regarding the practical implications of implementing such a proportional system and whether it could complicate the appointment process or lead to unintended consequences.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from concerns about how the proportional representation will be determined and whether it could lead to political or regional biases in the appointment process. Some stakeholders may argue that this approach could complicate the selection of qualified candidates, while others may advocate for the necessity of such representation to ensure justice and equity in parole decisions.

Companion Bills

NY A07151

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 A07151

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.