PA HB1550

Individuals aged 50 or older who have served at least 25 years or one-half of their minimum sentence (whichever is less) may petition the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole for release if deemed not a danger to the public.

Victims and the Office of Victim Advocate must be notified within 30 business days of a petition and given 60 days to submit written responses for the board's consideration.

The board must evaluate petitions based on the individual's offense, disciplinary record, rehabilitation efforts, physical and mental health, post-release care plan, and likelihood of posing a danger if released.

Denied petitioners may file a habeas corpus petition (with a court hearing required within 60 days), request reconsideration within 30 days, or submit a new petition one year after the initial filing.

During declared health emergencies or disease outbreaks in correctional facilities, the board may grant expedited medical parole to incarcerated individuals at risk of serious complications or death due to age or underlying health conditions.