Correctional Services - Maryland Parole Commission - Members and Hearing Examiners

HB 1156 changes the Maryland Parole Commission by increasing its size from 10 to 15-20 members and altering how members are appointed. It requires the Governor to select members from a list of nominees provided by a panel of eight stakeholders, including law enforcement, public defense, social work, and community representatives, though this panel process applies only to initial appointments. The bill also removes the Commission's authority to appoint hearing examiners, transferring that responsibility to the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services. These changes directly affect the Commission’s structure and the process for conducting parole hearings in Maryland.