The bill would amend the Government Code as it relates to the eligibility for release onto parole of certain youthful offenders convicted of certain offenses. Under the provisions of the bill, certain individuals younger than 17 years at the time of offense would be eligible for consideration for release onto parole supervision when the actual time served on a sentence equals one-half of the sentence or 30 years, whichever is less, with a minimum term of confinement of four years. Additionally, certain individuals serving a life sentence for a capital felony committed when younger than 18 years would be eligible for consideration for release onto parole supervision when the actual calendar time equals 30 years. The bill would require additional parole considerations as outlined in the bill for certain individuals younger than 17 years of age at the time of offense.
The Texas Juvenile Justice Department, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and Board of Pardons and Paroles indicate the modifications outlined in the bill's provisions would not result in a significant fiscal impact. This analysis assumes the provisions of the bill addressing felony sanctions would not result in a significant impact on the demand for state correctional resources.
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.