The bill amends New Jersey's parole process by requiring a comprehensive report on each incarcerated individual to be submitted to the appropriate board panel 120 to 180 days before their parole eligibility date. This report must include pre-incarceration records, conduct during confinement, psychological evaluations in certain cases, and assessments of the likelihood of reoffending. Additionally, it mandates that crime victims can submit statements regarding the impact of the crime, which will be considered during the parole hearing. The bill also enhances transparency by allowing the disclosure of confidential materials to the incarcerated person and their representatives, ensuring that any significant confidential documents influencing a parole denial are noted in the board's statement.

Moreover, the bill establishes procedures for appealing parole denials, requiring the Appellate Division of the Superior Court to review any undisclosed confidential materials that significantly impacted the denial decision. If the court finds that nondisclosure was improper, it can remand the case for reconsideration or exercise original jurisdiction. The bill also ensures that a parole counselor or board representative is assigned to assist incarcerated individuals with parole-related procedures and be present during hearings upon request. These changes aim to improve the fairness and transparency of the parole process, aligning with recommendations from the Office of the Public Defender Parole Project.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4-123.54, 30:4-123.55, 30:4-123.58