NC H126

Allows inmates sentenced to life imprisonment without parole to become eligible for release under the Mutual Agreement Parole Program (MAPP) after serving a minimum of 20 years and completing mandatory educational, vocational, and work requirements.

Requires eligible inmates to be assessed during their first five years of imprisonment, then offered a 15-year MAPP contract that evaluates behavioral, educational, and occupational needs.

Mandates participating inmates complete a GED or high school diploma (if not already possessed), a vocational trade program, and work requirements through Correction Enterprises, the Inmate Construction Program, or similar state-provided positions.

Sets parole term at five years with possibility of earlier termination by the Post-Release Supervision and Parole Commission; violators returning to prison become ineligible for parole for five years from the date of return.

Applies retroactively to inmates who have served 20 or more years by August 1, 2023, and completed some or most requirements, making them eligible for modified MAPP contracts of one to three years; becomes effective August 1, 2023.