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HB 1147

Correctional Services - Maryland Parole Commission - Improvements in Transparency and Equity

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Bartlett and 8 co-sponsors

Maryland bill enhances Parole Commission transparency and equity in release decisions through procedural reforms, passing third reading en route to judicial review.

Hearing 3/27 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1147

Legislative bill overview

HB 1147 aims to enhance the Maryland Parole Commission's operations by improving transparency in parole decision-making processes and addressing equity concerns in how parole decisions are made across different populations. The bill has passed its third reading and is now in the Judicial Proceedings committee after receiving a favorable report from the Judiciary Committee with amendments.

Why is this important

Parole decisions significantly affect individuals' freedom and reintegration into society, making transparency and equitable processes critical to public trust in the criminal justice system. These reforms could reduce potential racial, socioeconomic, or other disparities in parole outcomes while allowing the public and incarcerated individuals greater insight into how release decisions are made.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Enhanced transparency requirements and equity reviews may require additional staff and resources for the Parole Commission
  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that increased focus on equity and transparency could prioritize procedural fairness over rigorous risk assessment, potentially affecting public safety evaluations
  • Specificity of amendments: Without detailed information on what amendments were made, the actual scope of transparency and equity measures remains unclear and could be either strengthened or weakened from original intent

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

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