An Act to end lifetime parole for juveniles and emerging adults
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Create an account to take a stance, submit a written position, or contact your legislator.
Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill seeks to eliminate the practice of lifetime parole for juveniles and emerging adults in Massachusetts. Currently, individuals in this age group who are on parole may be subject to indefinite supervision. The legislation aims to provide a pathway to release and reintegration into society after a set period, aligning with the understanding of adolescent development and rehabilitation. It intends to reduce the long-term impact of incarceration on young people.
Key provisions
- Ends lifetime parole for juveniles and emerging adults.
- Establishes a defined period for parole supervision after a sentence.
- Allows for parole board discretion in determining release conditions.
- Focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration of young offenders.
- Addresses sentencing practices for youth involved in the criminal justice system.
Who is affected
- Juveniles
- Emerging adults (typically defined as ages 18-25)
- Individuals on parole in Massachusetts
- The Massachusetts criminal justice system
- Parole boards
Notable changes
- Replaces indefinite parole with a structured period of supervision.
- Potentially reduces the number of individuals subject to lifelong restrictions.
- Aligns sentencing practices with evolving understandings of adolescent development.
Bill text
Read the latest version inline or switch to a previous version.
Text extraction is in progress. View the official source.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
23 on record
Primary sponsor
Christopher J. Worrell
Cosponsors
Amy Mah Sangiolo
Andres X. Vargas
Arguments
Reasons offered for and against this legislation.
Arguments in favor
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours