Lexi's Law advances for discussion after emotional testimony from survivors; committee places measure in fiscal review

Delegate Teta presented HB 13 26, known in testimony as "Lexi's Law," as a targeted change to the geriatric-release process. The sponsor told the subcommittee the bill would restrict consideration for conditional or geriatric release to exclude people convicted of the "most violent felonies," and would limit eligibility review to once every 10 years for those offenses. The sponsor said his intent is to keep the "most violent criminals" from being repeatedly reconsidered for early release.

Multiple survivors and family members delivered emotional testimony. Marie Jones, who identified herself as the sister of Lexi Walters, described her sister's murder and urged the committee to prevent dangerous offenders from being considered for geriatric release. Other witnesses, including Tracy Concha and survivors who said they spoke before the parole board, recounted fears about revictimization if violent offenders were released early.

Opponents including Mazie Osteen of the Legal Aid Justice Center argued the substitute removes needed discretion and could categorically bar medically incapacitated people, including those who are quadriplegic or wheelchair-bound, from compassionate or medical-release pathways. Osteen presented Department of Corrections statistics saying many inmates are considered for geriatric release but relatively few are released; she warned the bill's categorical exclusions could have unintended consequences for a spectrum of cases.

Sponsor and committee staff explained the measure contains an "icebox" (second-enactment) fiscal clause; the committee will hold the bill pending a fiscal review by Appropriations so lawmakers can assess associated costs. No final committee vote advancing Lexi's Law out of the subcommittee was taken today; the item will remain under committee consideration pending fiscal guidance.