The proposed bill establishes a new section, 947.161, in the Florida Statutes, which allows certain long-term prisoners to become eligible for parole under specific conditions. Offenders serving sentences exceeding 10 years for non-fatal offenses or 20 years for fatal offenses (excluding those designated as sexual predators) can apply for parole consideration. The bill outlines eligibility requirements, including having no disciplinary offenses in the past seven years, possessing a high school diploma or GED, completing various rehabilitation programs, and being at least 50 years old. Additionally, it mandates that offenders released under this section must adhere to strict conditions, such as community control, curfews, and participation in support groups.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates that savings generated from the implementation of this parole program will be allocated to various initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism. Specifically, 50% of the savings will fund law enforcement programs, 25% will support prison and community-based programs, and the remaining 25% will be used for staffing dedicated personnel in the commission's offices. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to promote public safety through rehabilitation and restorative practices while addressing the social and economic impacts of long-term incarceration.