Nevada bill AB 91 allows second look parole review for certain felons
June 01, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
In a recent meeting of the Nevada State Legislature's Senate Committee on Judiciary, lawmakers discussed Assembly Bill 91, which proposes significant changes to the state's parole system. The bill aims to introduce a "second look" review process for individuals convicted of serious felonies, allowing for the possibility of earlier parole under specific conditions.
The proposed legislation would enable the state board of parole commissioners to grant a second review for inmates who have served at least ten years of their minimum sentence, provided they are not serving a death sentence and do not pose a significant safety risk. This review process can be initiated through written applications from prisoners, their attorneys, family members, or other representatives. The board is required to verify eligibility within 15 days and schedule a hearing for those deemed eligible.
One of the key aspects of AB 91 is its retroactive application, meaning it could affect individuals convicted of crimes before, on, or after January 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill expands eligibility for parole to include individuals convicted of offenses committed before the age of 25, recognizing the potential for rehabilitation among younger offenders.
During the meeting, committee members raised concerns about the implications of allowing the parole board to review cases that have already been adjudicated in court. Some senators questioned whether this process undermines the judicial system's checks and balances, particularly for serious crimes. Proponents of the bill argued that it acknowledges the evolving understanding of rehabilitation and the potential for change in individuals who committed crimes at a young age.
Supporters of AB 91, including advocates for inmates, emphasized that the bill addresses issues of mass incarceration and recidivism. They argue that by providing opportunities for parole based on rehabilitation, the state could reduce prison populations and save significant costs associated with incarceration.
As the committee continues to deliberate on the bill, the discussions highlight a broader conversation about criminal justice reform in Nevada, particularly regarding how the state balances public safety with the potential for rehabilitation. The outcome of this legislation could have lasting implications for the state's parole system and the lives of many incarcerated individuals.
The proposed legislation would enable the state board of parole commissioners to grant a second review for inmates who have served at least ten years of their minimum sentence, provided they are not serving a death sentence and do not pose a significant safety risk. This review process can be initiated through written applications from prisoners, their attorneys, family members, or other representatives. The board is required to verify eligibility within 15 days and schedule a hearing for those deemed eligible.
One of the key aspects of AB 91 is its retroactive application, meaning it could affect individuals convicted of crimes before, on, or after January 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill expands eligibility for parole to include individuals convicted of offenses committed before the age of 25, recognizing the potential for rehabilitation among younger offenders.
During the meeting, committee members raised concerns about the implications of allowing the parole board to review cases that have already been adjudicated in court. Some senators questioned whether this process undermines the judicial system's checks and balances, particularly for serious crimes. Proponents of the bill argued that it acknowledges the evolving understanding of rehabilitation and the potential for change in individuals who committed crimes at a young age.
Supporters of AB 91, including advocates for inmates, emphasized that the bill addresses issues of mass incarceration and recidivism. They argue that by providing opportunities for parole based on rehabilitation, the state could reduce prison populations and save significant costs associated with incarceration.
As the committee continues to deliberate on the bill, the discussions highlight a broader conversation about criminal justice reform in Nevada, particularly regarding how the state balances public safety with the potential for rehabilitation. The outcome of this legislation could have lasting implications for the state's parole system and the lives of many incarcerated individuals.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting