Michigan Senate Bill SB0120

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/1/23

Caption

Corrections: parole; parole of certain offenders less than 19 at time of conviction; provide for under certain circumstances. Amends sec. 34 of 1953 PA 232 (MCL 791.234). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0119'23, SB 0121'23, SB 0123'23, SB 0122'23

Impact

The bill seeks to amend existing laws surrounding parole by specifically addressing cases involving young offenders, thereby recognizing their potential for rehabilitation. This change could have significant implications in Michigan's correctional system, particularly in how juvenile offenders are treated. By allowing parole after a set amount of time served, the legislation could help reduce the long-term impacts of incarceration on young individuals, promoting the notion of second chances in the context of the criminal justice system.

Summary

Senate Bill 0120 focuses on amending the Corrections Code of 1953 in Michigan to provide for parole eligibility for certain offenders who were under 19 years old at the time of their offense. This legislation allows individuals who committed serious crimes as juveniles and have served at least 10 years of their sentence to be eligible for parole, presuming that the parole board will consider factors such as the offender's age, family environment, and circumstances of the offense. By opening the possibility for parole, SB 0120 seeks to offer a pathway for rehabilitation and reintegration into society for young offenders who have committed serious crimes.

Contention

While supporters advocate that SB 0120 reflects an understanding of juvenile psychology and the capacity for change, critics may argue that it could undermine the severity of penalties for serious crimes. The inherent tension lies between public safety concerns and the belief in rehabilitation for young offenders. This amendment may face opposition from those who feel that such flexibility in parole undermines justice for victims of crime and sentencings that previously deemed lifelong imprisonment necessary.