TX HB200

Establishes parole eligibility for inmates who committed felonies when younger than 18 years old at the earlier of 20 years of actual time served (without good conduct credit) or their otherwise applicable parole eligibility date

Requires parole panels to assess growth and maturity of youthful offenders, considering diminished culpability of juveniles, hallmark features of youth, and greater capacity for change compared to adults

Mandates the Board of Pardons and Paroles adopt policies requiring consideration of age at offense as a mitigating factor, allowing character statements from people who knew the inmate, and incorporating comprehensive mental health evaluations by adolescent mental health experts

Requires courts to provide specific jury instructions about the 20-year parole eligibility rule during sentencing for defendants who were under 18 at the time of their offense

Excludes inmates convicted of capital murder of a peace officer/fireman or mass shooting-related aggravated assault from these youthful offender parole provisions; takes effect January 1, 2026