The bill S.237, introduced by Senator Vyhovsky, aims to restructure the Parole Board in Vermont by establishing a new composition of one full-time chair and four members, along with the creation of a staff attorney and an administrative assistant. It mandates annual training for the Parole Board members, requires the Board to submit its budget directly to the Governor, and stipulates that offenders sentenced to a minimum term must have no pending criminal charges to be eligible for parole. Additionally, the bill clarifies victims' rights during parole hearings, allows parolees to voluntarily relinquish their parole status, and enables them to benefit from an earned time program.

Key amendments in the bill include the replacement of the term "parole board" with "Parole Board" throughout the text, the introduction of a requirement for the Parole Board to submit an annual budget to the Governor, and the establishment of a new position for a Parole Board Director. The bill also specifies that victims of listed crimes must be informed about parole hearings and their rights to testify, while ensuring that inmates are not present during such testimonies unless waived by the victim. Furthermore, it allows parolees to earn time off their sentences under certain conditions, including participation in treatment programs, and sets forth appropriations for the new positions created within the Parole Board. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-5305, 28-403, 28-451, 28-455, 28-456, 28-501, 28-502c, 28-507, 28-818