This bill amends the parole eligibility criteria for individuals serving sentences for first-degree murder in West Virginia. Specifically, it stipulates that inmates convicted of first-degree murder for offenses committed on or after July 1, 2025, will not be eligible for parole until they have served a minimum of 25 years of their sentence. This change replaces the previous requirement of 15 years for such inmates. Additionally, the bill increases the minimum time before parole eligibility for inmates sentenced to life who have been previously convicted of a felony from 15 years to 25 years.

The bill also clarifies the conditions under which inmates may be considered for parole, including the completion of rehabilitation programs and the submission of a parole release plan. It emphasizes that the Parole Board must ensure that the inmate does not pose a danger to the community before granting parole. The proposed changes aim to enhance public safety by extending the time before parole eligibility for serious offenses, particularly first-degree murder, thereby reflecting a stricter approach to parole for violent crimes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 62-12-13of