The bill amends Section 15-22-26 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to refine the criteria for parole consideration for inmates. Key changes include the replacement of the term "prisoner" with "inmate" throughout the section, emphasizing that parole will not be granted solely as a reward for good behavior but based on specific criteria established by the Board of Pardons and Paroles. The new guidelines will focus on factors such as the inmate's risk to reoffend, compliance with reentry plans, input from victims and law enforcement, participation in risk-reduction programs, institutional behavior, severity of the offense, and newly added considerations for employment and education gained while incarcerated.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Board of Pardons and Paroles must consider an inmate's employment and education while incarcerated when making parole decisions. It clarifies that the board retains discretion over parole decisions and that the established guidelines do not create an expectation of parole release. The board is also required to provide clear reasons for its decisions regarding parole approval or denial to the inmate and other interested parties. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-22-26, 15-22-26
Engrossed: 15-22-26, 15-22-26
Enrolled: 15-22-26, 15-22-26