An Act to implement recommendations of the Commission on structural racism in the parole process
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to put into action the recommendations made by the Commission on structural racism in the parole process. It seeks to address systemic biases within the state’s parole system, ensuring fairer and more equitable outcomes for individuals subject to parole decisions. The legislation focuses on reforms designed to mitigate the impact of racial disparities in sentencing and release criteria. By implementing these changes, the goal is to create a more just and equitable parole system.
Key provisions
- Review and revise parole criteria to reduce reliance on factors linked to racial bias.
- Increase transparency in the parole decision-making process.
- Expand opportunities for parole hearings and reconsideration.
- Require data collection and analysis to identify and address racial disparities.
- Establish a process for ongoing evaluation of the parole system’s fairness and effectiveness.
- Consider implementing implicit bias training for parole officers.
- Create a mechanism for individuals to challenge parole decisions based on racial bias.
- Promote community involvement in the parole process.
Who is affected
- Individuals subject to parole in Massachusetts
- Parole officers
- The Department of Correction
- Applicants for parole
- The public
Notable changes
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
3 on record
Primary sponsor
Andres X. Vargas
Cosponsors
Andres X. Vargas
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