A bill allowing state inmates in Alabama to speak at their parole hearings via phone or video conference was advanced by a legislative committee. This bill would allow inmates to participate in their hearings for the first time, enabling them to answer questions from the Parole Board. The bill was approved by the Senate and now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration in the final days of the legislative session. Alabama is currently one of two states that do not permit inmates to speak at parole hearings.
Republican Sen. Will Barfoot, the bill sponsor, emphasized the importance of giving inmates the opportunity to participate in their parole hearings. The bill initially faced opposition over a proposal that would have allowed the Parole Board to decide whether inmates could participate. However, the committee eventually approved the bill after adding an amendment that would also allow victims and law enforcement officials to speak at parole hearings through electronic means. This amendment was suggested by victim advocacy groups as a way to make it easier for individuals to participate without having to travel long distances.
Wanda Miller, the executive director of VOCAL, a victims advocacy group, expressed opposition to the bill, citing concerns that the current system is sufficient. However, the addition of the amendment allowing victims and law enforcement officials to participate remotely was seen as a compromise that addressed some of these concerns. This amendment was intended to provide a more streamlined process for all parties involved in the parole hearings, avoiding the need for individuals to travel long distances to attend.
If approved by the House of Representatives, the bill is set to take effect on October 1. This change would mark a significant shift in the way parole hearings are conducted in Alabama, allowing for greater communication and participation from all parties involved. The bill aims to modernize the parole hearing process and make it more accessible, particularly for those who may face challenges in attending hearings in person. The approval of this bill would represent a significant milestone in the criminal justice system in Alabama, bringing the state more in line with national standards.
