The bill amends Section 15-22-32 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the authority of the Board of Pardons and Paroles concerning parole violations. Key changes include replacing the term "prisoner who has been paroled" with "parolee" for clarity. The bill specifies conditions for mandatory parole revocation, such as violent offenses or new arrests, while allowing the board discretion in other cases. It introduces a provision permitting the board to require parolees to serve sentences for violations in residential transition centers or county jails. Additionally, a new position of Parole Revocation Hearing Officer is established to oversee parole court proceedings.

The bill also addresses the scheduling of parole court hearings during emergencies, mandating that hearings be held within 40 business days if a court cannot convene within 20 days. It ensures that no parolee is held beyond 40 business days from the request for a hearing. The rights of parolees during the hearing process are emphasized, including the right to present witnesses and retain counsel, with the option for a waiver of these rights under specific conditions. The board is tasked with creating guidelines to implement these changes, which will take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-22-32, 15-22-32
Engrossed: 15-22-32, 15-22-32