Elderly Parole Program.

Senator Jones's proposal to modify California's Elderly Parole Program would exclude additional categories of offenders from parole consideration, specifically those convicted of certain sexual offenses and habitual sex offenders. The bill, known as Mary Bella's Law, adds these exclusions to existing restrictions that already bar serious felony offenders, those convicted of first-degree murder of peace officers, and individuals serving life sentences without parole.

Under current law, inmates aged 50 or older who have served at least 20 years of continuous incarceration may be considered for parole through the Elderly Parole Program. The Board of Parole Hearings evaluates whether an inmate's age, time served, and physical condition have reduced their risk of future violence. The proposed changes would apply to all persons incarcerated as of January 1, 2026, regardless of previous parole eligibility or pending petitions.

The bill maintains existing victim rights at parole hearings while directing the Board of Parole Hearings to implement the new exclusionary criteria. The measure requires majority approval and fiscal committee review, though it includes no direct appropriations.