CT SB00503

Expands youth parole eligibility from individuals who committed crimes under age 21 to those under age 26, allowing parole consideration after serving 60% of sentences of 50 years or less (minimum 12 years) or after 30 years for sentences exceeding 50 years

Removes the requirement that crimes must have been committed on or before October 1, 2005, making the expanded parole provisions applicable regardless of when the offense occurred

Requires courts sentencing individuals under age 26 convicted of class A or B felonies to consider adolescent and young adult brain development, scientific evidence on developmental differences, and how such evidence may counsel against lengthy sentences

Mandates presentence investigation reports for individuals under 26 convicted of class A or B felonies, addressing developmental factors, and prohibits waiver of such reports

Creates a rebuttable presumption that individuals eligible for parole under these provisions have satisfied all other parole eligibility factors; the Board of Pardons and Paroles decision remains not subject to appeal