The bill amends New Jersey's parole process for incarcerated individuals by requiring a comprehensive report to be filed with the parole board 120 to 180 days before an individual's parole eligibility date. This report must include pre-incarceration records, conduct during confinement, psychological evaluations, and any history of civil commitment. Additionally, the bill allows crime victims to submit statements regarding the impact of the crime, which will be considered during parole hearings. Notably, the bill updates the terminology throughout to replace "inmate" with "incarcerated person," promoting a more respectful language.

Moreover, the bill enhances transparency by expanding access to confidential materials for incarcerated individuals and their representatives. It mandates that any confidential documents removed from the parole file be documented with reasons for their removal. The bill also establishes procedures for parole consideration hearings, ensuring victims can testify and that a designated hearing officer reviews reports and makes recommendations. It codifies the ruling from *Thompson v. N.J. State Parole Board*, requiring the Appellate Division of the Superior Court to review confidential materials in cases of parole denial appeals. If nondisclosure is found improper, the court can remand the case for reconsideration. Additionally, a parole counselor or board representative must assist incarcerated individuals with parole procedures and be present during hearings upon request, 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