This bill amends current law to allow prisoners aged 60 years or older who are serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole for first-degree murder to become eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 18 years, provided they demonstrate good behavior. Specifically, it modifies RSA 630:1-a, III by removing the clause that states such individuals "shall not be eligible for parole at any time" and inserts language that makes them eligible for release on parole in accordance with RSA 651-A:7-a. Additionally, a new section, RSA 651-A:7-a, is added to outline the specific criteria for parole eligibility, which includes being 60 years or older, having served more than 18 years, and not having committed any serious violations in the last 10 years.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and while it does not provide funding, it is estimated that it may impact around 15 individuals currently incarcerated for first-degree murder. The Department of Corrections has indicated that it cannot determine the exact fiscal impact due to insufficient data on the number of eligible individuals. However, the Adult Parole Board has assessed that the bill will not significantly affect its operations. Overall, the legislation aims to provide a pathway for older inmates serving life sentences to seek parole under specific conditions, reflecting a shift towards more lenient parole eligibility for this demographic.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 630:1-a