CT HB07104

Decriminalized possession of less than one-half ounce of cannabis by reclassifying it from felony to Class A misdemeanor, effective October 1, 2015.

Restructured the Board of Pardons and Paroles to consist of 10 full-time and up to 5 part-time members (reduced from 20 members), with authority to grant parole through both panel hearings and administrative recommendations, effective July 1, 2015.

Established expedited pardons review process for applicants convicted of nonviolent crimes, allowing pardon grants without hearings unless victims request one.

Created new victim notification requirements for parole hearings and established an Office of Victim Services to coordinate victim rights and services, effective July 1, 2015.

Added "persistent offender for possession of a controlled substance" classification allowing enhanced sentencing for repeat drug possession offenders, and required courts to hold parole hearing panels with three members (increased from two) effective January 1, 2016.