Senate passes SB 156 to review life sentences without parole

The Alabama House Judiciary Committee made significant strides in criminal justice reform during its recent meeting on April 9, 2025, by advancing Senate Bill 156, which aims to create a legal pathway for individuals sentenced to life without the possibility of parole under certain conditions. This bill, championed by Representative England and now carried by Senator Barfoot, allows for the review of cases where no physical injury was involved in the underlying offense.

The bill targets an estimated 250 to 200 individuals who have served at least 25 years in prison for non-violent offenses. It provides these individuals the opportunity to petition the court for a review of their sentences, a move that advocates argue promotes fairness in the justice system. The committee emphasized that this is not a "get out of jail free card," but rather a chance for individuals to have their cases heard, with the possibility of being resentenced or placed on probation.

Key amendments to the bill were discussed, including increased involvement from the Attorney General's office to ensure thorough reviews of petitions. The amendments also include provisions for data collection on the outcomes of these hearings, which will help assess the program's effectiveness over time.

While the bill received support from various advocacy groups, it also sparked debate among committee members. Some expressed concerns about the implications of allowing individuals with multiple felony convictions to seek sentence reductions. Representative Simpson voiced strong opposition, arguing that the bill misrepresents itself as a second chance initiative when it may actually provide multiple opportunities for individuals with serious criminal histories.

Despite the differing opinions, the committee ultimately voted to give the bill a favorable report as amended, signaling a step forward in addressing long-standing issues within Alabama's sentencing laws. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential votes in the full House, as stakeholders continue to weigh the balance between justice and rehabilitation.