Pardons and Paroles; hearing procedures, revised

HB 523 revises the procedures for parole hearings conducted by the Board of Pardons and Paroles. It requires the Board to establish a minimum speaking time for advocates, ensuring equal time for those supporting and opposing an inmate's parole. The bill specifies who can speak at these hearings, including authorized representatives for inmates and victims, law enforcement, and legal officials. Additionally, it allows Board members to provide the basis for their parole decision if requested by an attendee. The Board must adopt rules to implement these changes, which will become effective on October 1, 2025.