The New Mexico Senate has concurred on the New Mexico Parole Board Modernization Act (SB 17), which the House of Representatives passed following unanimous approval in the Senate. The legislation now awaits Governor Lujan-Grisham's signature. Sponsored by Senator Leo Jaramillo and Representative Nicole Chavez, this bipartisan bill marks the first major update to the state's parole criteria since 1980.
"When people become eligible for parole, they have already spent 30 years in prison as punishment for their crimes," stated Senator Leo Jaramillo. "This legislation provides clear expectations for everyone impacted by the process, including crime victims. The unanimous passage in the Senate and now approval in the House shows that modernizing our parole system transcends party lines — because good governance and public safety aren't partisan issues."
The bill aims to address critical gaps in the current system, such as protecting the political independence of the parole board, clarifying reimbursement for board member service, and ensuring more considerate scheduling of hearings. Currently, parole hearings often coincide with crime anniversaries, causing emotional strain on victims' families. The new legislation would prohibit scheduling hearings on victims' birth or death dates in cases involving loss of life.
"How our parole board carries out its responsibilities matters deeply for everyone in our community," said co-sponsor Representative Nicole Chavez. "This bill ensures victims are respected during hearings while providing a fair, evidence-based process for those who demonstrate genuine rehabilitation after serving their minimum sentences."
Denali Wilson from ACLU of New Mexico commented on the legislative progress: "With passage in both chambers, New Mexico has taken a decisive step toward a more fair and effective parole system. This legislation ensures our state will make parole decisions based on meaningful evidence rather than outdated considerations."
If signed by Governor Lujan-Grisham, this legislation would align New Mexico's parole system with professional recommendations and evidence-based practices proven effective elsewhere.
