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LR 242

Interim study to examine the current structure, function, and authority of the Board of Parole

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ashlei Spivey

LR 242 authorizes a thorough study of the Nebraska Board of Parole to evaluate structural, clerical, and procedural changes to improve parole outcomes and align with best practices

Referred to Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · LR 242

Summary of Nebraska LR 242 (Interim Study)

Overview

LR 242 is a legislative resolution introduced in the 109th Nebraska Legislature, First Session, on May 15, 2025. It proposes an interim study to examine the current structure, function, and authority of the Nebraska Board of Parole. The resolution directs the Judiciary Committee to conduct the study and, upon completion, to report findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature. It is classified as a resolution, not a substantive statute.

Purpose and Scope of the Study

The study seeks to assess and potentially improve the Board of Parole by addressing the following items, among others:

  • Appropriate composition and qualifications for board members to reflect expertise needed for parole decisions.
  • The appointment process and length of terms for board members, including accountability and consistency.
  • Criteria and procedures used in parole hearings and decision-making.
  • Administrative independence of the Board of Parole and the board’s capacity and staffing to meet growing demand for parole hearings.
  • Models from other states that have restructured or updated their parole boards to improve outcomes, reduce recidivism, and address racial and socioeconomic disparities in parole decisions.
  • How the Board of Parole’s decisions affect prison population levels, public safety, and reentry outcomes in Nebraska.

The Judiciary Committee may consult with a broad range of stakeholders, including formerly incarcerated individuals, criminal justice reform advocates, law enforcement representatives, parole officers, victims’ advocacy groups, public officials, and other interested parties, to align the board with best practices.

Process, Timeline, and Reporting

  • The designated committee for the interim study is the Judiciary Committee.
  • After completing the study, the committee will prepare and submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature.
  • Interim studies typically occur between legislative sessions, informing potential future policy changes.

Procedural Details and Status

  • Introduced: May 15, 2025.
  • Legislative actions: Referred to Executive Board (May 15, 2025), then referred to Judiciary Committee (May 19, 2025).
  • Primary sponsor: Spivey; additional sponsor listed as McKinney (11).

Potential Impact

  • The resolution itself does not change law but may influence future policy by identifying recommended reforms to the Board of Parole’s composition, independence, processes, and staffing.
  • Outcomes could include proposals to improve decision-making quality, address disparities, enhance public safety, and support effective reentry, depending on study findings and committee recommendations.

Key Takeaway

LR 242 authorizes a thorough, multi-stakeholder review of the Nebraska Board of Parole to evaluate whether structural, clerical, or procedural changes could improve parole outcomes and align the board with best practices in criminal justice reform. The Judiciary Committee will report its findings and recommendations upon completion.

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

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