The bill amends New Mexico law regarding probation and parole by eliminating the requirement for defendants to pay for parole services, thereby reducing financial burdens on individuals under supervision. It also introduces provisions for the automatic release of minimum risk defendants from probation if they meet certain criteria, such as fulfilling all obligations and completing at least half of their probation period. This aims to streamline the probation process and lessen unnecessary supervision for low-risk individuals. Additionally, the bill clarifies procedures for meritorious deductions, allowing inmates to earn sentence reductions for good behavior and participation in approved programs, while also specifying conditions under which these deductions can be lost.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new definitions and provisions related to educational, substance abuse, and mental health programs for prisoners, emphasizing self-improvement through skill development. It defines "program" to exclude recreational activities and clarifies what constitutes a "nonviolent offense." The bill also sets guidelines for awarding earned meritorious deductions for parolees, allowing them to earn up to thirty days of deductions per month based on compliance with parole conditions. The adult parole board retains the authority to revoke these deductions if necessary, and the corrections department and the adult parole board are tasked with creating rules for implementation.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 31-18-15, 31-20-5, 31-21-10, 33-2-34
Final Version: 31-18-15, 31-20-5, 31-21-10, 33-2-34