MS SB2876

Establishes mandatory parole eligibility requirements: violent crime offenders sentenced after June 30, 1995 must serve 50% or 20-30 years (whichever is less) depending on sentencing date; nonviolent offenders must serve 25% of sentence.

Requires the Department of Corrections to develop case plans for all parole-eligible inmates within 90 days of admission (by January 1, 2022 for those admitted before July 1, 2021) and ensure plans are achievable before parole eligibility date.

Increases parole board voting requirements: at least 3 members must vote affirmatively to grant parole for violent crime offenders; at least 4 members must vote affirmatively for sex offenders and capital murder convictions.

Mandates parole hearings for inmates convicted of sex offenses or crimes of violence; allows other eligible inmates to be released without a hearing if they meet case plan requirements and victim does not request hearing.

Requires victim notification of parole applications and release dates; provides victims opportunity to be heard by the parole board before parole decision is made.