This bill amends existing laws regarding the diminution of sentences for good behavior and parole eligibility for offenders in Louisiana. It introduces new provisions that allow offenders convicted of a fourth or subsequent nonviolent felony offense to earn a reduction in their sentence at a rate of one day for every two days served in custody, including time spent in custody with good behavior prior to sentencing. Additionally, the bill specifies that offenders serving life sentences will earn good time that can be applied if their sentences are commuted. The bill also clarifies that diminution of sentence will not be permitted for offenders convicted of second offense crimes of violence or sex offenses.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the eligibility criteria for parole consideration. It establishes that individuals with a fourth or subsequent conviction of a nonviolent felony offense must serve 65% of their sentence before being eligible for parole, while other offenders must serve 25%. The bill explicitly states that these provisions do not apply to those convicted of sex offenses. Overall, the legislation aims to reform sentencing and parole processes, particularly for nonviolent offenders, while maintaining stricter regulations for violent and sexual offenses.

Statutes affected:
HB70 Original: 15:3(B)(1), 15:4(A)(1)
HB70 Engrossed: 15:3(B)(1), 15:4(A)(1)
HB70 Enrolled: 15:3(B)(1), 15:4(A)(1)
HB70 Act : 15:3(B)(1), 15:4(A)(1)