Elderly Parole Program.

Senator Jones proposes modifying California's Elderly Parole Program by expanding the categories of inmates ineligible for parole consideration under the program. The legislation would exclude individuals convicted of first-degree murder and those who received sentence enhancements for specific sexual offenses, including rape, sodomy, and lewd acts.

Under current law, the Elderly Parole Program allows parole consideration for inmates aged 50 or older who have served at least 20 years of continuous incarceration. The Board of Parole Hearings evaluates factors such as age, time served, and physical condition when assessing an inmate's parole suitability. Existing exclusions apply to those convicted of serious felonies, first-degree murder of peace officers, and those serving life sentences without parole.

The bill maintains existing procedural requirements for parole hearings and preserves victims' rights during the hearing process. The Board of Parole Hearings would continue scheduling subsequent hearings for inmates denied parole, unless release occurs through other statutory provisions before the next scheduled hearing date.