Mississippi Senate Bill SB2117

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Earned-release supervision; require Parole Board to approve release of offenders.

Impact

The bill amends existing state law to provide a more structured process for handling earned-release supervision for offenders. By requiring that the Parole Board reviews cases and potentially holds hearings where required, the bill seeks to balance the interests of public safety with the rehabilitation goals of the corrections system. Furthermore, it stipulates that victims must be notified of the offender's potential release, granting them a voice in the process and heightening their awareness of public safety concerns.

Summary

Senate Bill 2117 establishes new protocols for the Mississippi Parole Board to review and authorize the release of offenders under the earned-time allowance program. The bill necessitates the Parole Board's issuance of a ruling on the recommendations made by the Mississippi Department of Corrections regarding placing offenders on earned-release supervision. In doing so, it aims to standardize the procedures followed in assessing the eligibility of offenders for earned-release, ensuring that factors such as their conduct while incarcerated and previous criminal records are thoroughly evaluated.

Contention

One significant point of contention surrounding SB2117 revolves around the implications of victim notification. Critics argue that while informing victims is essential, it may also reopen old wounds, particularly for those who suffered from serious crimes such as homicide. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding how the Parole Board operates under the new guidelines, especially in cases involving capital offenses, which may require a more rigorous review process in light of public safety risks. Debate may also arise over the criteria used to evaluate offenders and the transparency of the entire decision-making process.