CD CORR-PAROLE REVIEW-RETROACT
The bill enables individuals who committed non-violent offenses to file a petition for parole review earlier than what is traditionally permitted—up to three years before becoming eligible, rather than the previous restriction of three years from the petition's receipt. The Prisoner Review Board is mandated to respond within 30 days to these petitions. Proponents argue that this is a significant step toward rehabilitating young offenders by acknowledging their potential for growth and change during imprisonment. It addresses the unique circumstances and developmental changes associated with youth, aligning the parole review process with contemporary understandings of adolescent behavior.
SB2073 amends the Unified Code of Corrections, specifically targeting parole review processes for individuals under the age of 21 at the time of their crime. Introduced by Senator Seth Lewis, this bill stipulates that the amendatory Act applies retroactively and allows for parole review eligibility irrespective of the date of sentencing, as long as the sentencing occurred on or after June 1, 2019. This shift intends to facilitate the reintegration of youthful offenders into society by revisiting their sentences sooner than current regulations allow.
Controversy may arise surrounding the eligibility criteria, especially regarding individuals convicted of more serious offenses, such as first degree murder or serious sexual crimes. The bill specifically outlines that those convicted of first degree murder must serve a minimum of 20 years before they can be eligible for parole review, while individuals convicted of aggravated criminal sexual assault face a 20-year minimum before parole review is an option. Critics of the bill may argue that even with these stipulations, it could still lead to perceived leniency in handling serious crimes committed by youthful offenders.