The Youth Rehabilitation and Opportunity Act.

Senator Rubio's Youth Rehabilitation and Opportunity Act expands parole eligibility for individuals who committed their controlling offense at age 25 or younger, allowing consideration after 25 years of incarceration for those serving life sentences without parole. The legislation maintains existing exclusions for certain special circumstance murders, including those involving law enforcement officers, hate crimes, or acts of domestic violence.

The bill establishes a tiered parole review system based on sentence length. Those serving determinate sentences become eligible during their 15th year of incarceration, while individuals with life terms of less than 25 years may receive consideration in their 20th year. Offenders with terms of 25 years to life or life without parole qualify for review in their 25th year, provided their offense does not fall under the specified exclusions.

The Board of Parole Hearings must conduct reviews that account for diminished culpability of youth and subsequent personal growth. Licensed psychologists evaluate candidates while considering age-related factors, and input from family members, educators, and community representatives informs the assessment process. The legislation preserves victims' constitutional rights throughout proceedings, including notification requirements and opportunities to provide statements. All eligible cases must receive hearings by January 2028.