Substitute to parole‑guideline bill reported out to clarify tool is for suitability, not eligibility

A Senate committee on Thursday reported a substituted version of House Bill 1030 that clarifies discretionary parole guidelines in the bill are intended to assist the Parole Board in assessing suitability for release, not to change statutory eligibility standards.

Sponsor Delegate Will described the substitute and asked counsel to summarize the clarifying edits. Counsel told the committee that the substitute removed a code section previously tied to eligibility, so the guidelines would be an evidence‑based tool for the board’s discretion rather than an eligibility rule.

Witnesses from criminal‑justice reform organizations and survivors’ groups testified in favor, saying the measure provides clarity and a structured approach to identify people who can safely return to the community. Hannah Potts and others emphasized that the guidelines would weigh housing and employment as important reentry factors.

The committee reported the substitute; the clerk recorded the roll in the transcript (noted as '15 0 0'). Committee members expressed support for structured, transparent parole decision‑making while preserving board discretion.

The bill proceeds from committee to the next stage in the Senate process; supporters said they expect further work with stakeholders and the Parole Board on implementation details.