As state lawmakers sort out their end-of-session priorities, parole reform appears to be on the agenda for both chambers. The state Senate Crime Victims, Crime and Correction Committee voted to advance legislation meant to make it easier for incarcerated people to get considered for parole. And the Assembly Correction Committee was set to move that bill, along with another that would make elderly inmates eligible to get parole.

The Fair and Timely Parole bill would make it easier for people in prison who are eligible for parole to actually receive it. If implemented, the bill would amend state law to allow for parole to be granted unless the parole board can prove that a person would likely commit another crime if released. The board would be required to consider an expanded slate of factors including the person’s participation in therapeutic programs, statements of support from staff and fellow inmates and support services available to them.

“If you believe people cannot be redeemed, then I have nothing for you. I believe in redemption,” said state Sen. Gustavo Rivera, a longtime sponsor of the bill, as he voted to advance the legislation.

State Sen. Zellnor Myrie, who sponsors a bill meant to make it easier for formerly incarcerated people to find jobs, also voted to move the bill forward. “I taught in a prison. I have my formerly incarcerated constituents who fought for this bill. There are families that have been ripped apart,” Myrie said.

In addition to the Fair and Timely Parole bill, advocates have also been trying to get the Elder Parole bill over the legislative finish line this year. This bill would make incarcerated people aged 55 years and older who have been in prison for at least 15 years automatically eligible for a parole hearing. The bill does not mandate that anyone actually be released from prison, just that they be given the opportunity to make their case for release to a parole board. The Assembly Correction Committee was set to vote on this and Fair and Timely Parole Tuesday.