Second Look Sentencing Act

HB 2910, the Second Look Sentencing Act, allows West Virginia judges to reconsider prison sentences exceeding 10 years for individuals who have served at least a decade. It requires courts to evaluate if a defendant is not a danger, poses no credible risk of reoffending, demonstrates readiness for reentry, and if justice warrants modification, with a presumption of release for those 50+ at application. The bill mandates courts to consider factors like age at offense, rehabilitation progress, victim input, and family circumstances before granting modifications, which would require up to five years of supervised release. Defendants denied modifications may reapply after specified waiting periods (5 years for second applications, 2 years for third), with a final option available at age 50. This bill directly affects long-term incarcerated individuals, aiming to provide judicial review based on changed circumstances rather than solely on initial sentencing.