MS HB935

Expands parole eligibility for inmates convicted after June 30, 1995, of violent crimes or sex offenses to those who have served 50% of their sentence or 20 years (whichever is less), and for nonviolent crimes to those who have served 25% or 10 years (whichever is less)

Allows nonviolent habitual offenders to petition the sentencing judge for parole eligibility after serving 25% of their sentence or 10 years, whichever is less

Requires the Parole Board to hold a hearing before releasing any inmate convicted of a sex offense or crime of violence; inmates convicted of capital murder or sex offenses require an affirmative vote of at least 4 board members, while violent crime convictions require 3 votes

Mandates the Department of Corrections to complete individualized case plans for parole-eligible inmates within 90 days of admission (for those admitted on or after July 1, 2020) or by January 1, 2021 (for those admitted earlier)

Grants victims or designated family members the right to be heard by the Parole Board before parole decisions are made, upon request