MA H2052

Expands parole eligibility to prisoners currently excluded, including those serving life sentences for first-degree murder committed as adults and those at MCI-Bridgewater hospital facility

Sets a mandatory 25-year parole hearing for all prisoners, establishing that no person shall be imprisoned more than 25 years without a parole hearing

Establishes fixed minimum terms before parole eligibility: 25 years for first-degree murder by adults, 15-20 years for juveniles (ages 14-17), and 10-12 years for juveniles convicted solely of felony murder or joint venture who were not the actual killer

Creates a voluntary Restorative Justice program within the Department of Corrections for prisoners sentenced to more than 25 years, allowing interaction between prisoners, victims, victims' families, and community members

Protections ensure statements made during restorative justice participation remain confidential and cannot be used as evidence in legal proceedings; DOC must submit annual reports on program implementation by December 31