Louisiana Senate Bill SB202

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11
• Report Pass: 5/10/11
• Engrossed: 5/18/11
• Refer: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 6/8/11
• Enrolled: 6/16/11
• Chaptered: 6/24/11
• Passed: 6/24/11

Caption

Provides relative to the membership, duties and operations of the parole board and pardon board. (8/15/11) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

If enacted, SB202 will impact several state laws by restructuring how the Board of Pardons and the Board of Parole operate. The bill ensures that at least one member on the Board of Pardons is nominated from a victims' rights advocacy organization, thereby incorporating victim representation in the parole process. Additionally, the mandate for training and annual reporting is designed to professionalize the members of the Board of Parole, reinforcing the importance of data and evidence-based methods in determining offender management and parole considerations.

Summary

Senate Bill 202 aims to amend various provisions concerning the Board of Pardons and the Board of Parole in Louisiana, primarily focusing on the membership, duties, and operations of these boards. Key changes include the introduction of an ex-officio, non-voting member to the Board of Pardons, mandated training for parole board members, and the requirement for the Board of Parole to submit annual performance reports. The bill is part of a broader effort to enhance the effectiveness of the parole system and ensure accountability in decision-making processes regarding paroles and pardons.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB202 appears to be generally positive among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards modernizing the parole process and increasing accountability within the criminal justice system. Training requirements and victim representation are seen as progressive measures. However, there may be concerns from critics who fear that changing membership and procedures could complicate established practices or lead to inconsistencies in how pardons and paroles are handled, especially with respect to local community insights.

Contention

The notable points of contention regarding SB202 center around the inclusion of a victim's rights advocate as a board member and the potential implications for the decision-making process in parole hearings. While some argue that this inclusion is essential for ensuring victims' voices are heard, others contend it may bias the board away from rehabilitation-focused approaches. Additionally, the bill's training requirements necessitate robust budget considerations and could potentially create resistance from those who may prefer less regulation on board operations.