Bill to remove governor as final say on parole moves forward out of MD Senate

MARYLAND –  A new bill in Maryland seeks to remove the governor from the process of granting or withdrawing parole for prisoners.

The bill, sponsored by Democrat Jill Carter, would rest that decision purely with the Maryland State Parole Board, and remove the Governor at the top of the chain of command for any decision on parole authorization or reinstatement.

The law would also cover medical parole petitions where the governor was able to refuse accommodations recommended by the board.

Senate Bill 132 passed the Senate and is now heading to the House.

The bill passed with 33 lawmakers in favor and 10 against.