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SF 409

A bill for an act relating to the recording and redistribution of board of parole interview proceedings, and providing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carrie Koelker

Summary of SF 409: A bill relating to recording and redistribution of parole board interviews OverviewBill Number: SF 409 Title: A bill for an act relating to the recording and re

Subcommittee recommends passage.
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Bill Summary · SF 409

Summary of SF 409: A bill relating to recording and redistribution of parole board interviews

Overview

Bill Number: SF 409
Title: A bill for an act relating to the recording and redistribution of board of parole interview proceedings, and providing penalties.
Status: Subcommittee recommends passage.
Introduced: February 20, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 409 is to require the recording and public distribution of parole board interview proceedings. The bill aims to increase transparency and accountability in the parole process by allowing the public to access recordings of parole board interviews with incarcerated individuals.

Key Provisions

  • Mandates the audio and video recording of all parole board interviews with incarcerated individuals
  • Requires the parole board to make these recordings publicly available online within 30 days of each interview
  • Prohibits the parole board or other state officials from redacting or editing the recordings prior to publication
  • Establishes penalties, including fines and potential removal from office, for parole board members who fail to comply with the recording and publication requirements

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Incarcerated individuals appearing before the parole board would have their interviews publicly recorded and distributed
  • The parole board and state corrections department would be required to implement new recording and publication procedures
  • The general public would gain access to previously private parole board proceedings

The bill is intended to provide greater transparency into the parole decision-making process and allow the public to scrutinize parole board decisions. Proponents argue this will hold the parole board more accountable, while critics are concerned about the privacy implications for incarcerated individuals.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

SF 409 has been recommended for passage by a legislative subcommittee and will now move to the full chamber for further consideration. If enacted, the bill would take effect 90 days after the end of the current legislative session, giving the parole board time to establish the required recording and publication procedures.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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