Committee approves bill to require at least one formerly incarcerated person on parole board

The Senate Standing Committee on Crime Victims of Crime and Corruption on an unspecified date advanced S3746, a bill that would amend the executive law to require at least one member of the State Board of Parole to be a formerly incarcerated person.

Committee Chair Senator Cornelius Alazar led the item and answered procedural and eligibility questions during the discussion. A committee member asked whether the bill would also require representation from a victim or a family member of a murdered victim on the board. Chair Alazar replied that the bill “does not modify any other requirements” for service and that nothing in the bill currently prohibits victims or family members from serving on the board.

The exchange emphasized availability and eligibility of candidates. A committee member raised concerns about whether there are sufficient eligible formerly incarcerated candidates; Chair Alazar said he has spoken with multiple formerly incarcerated individuals who have sought support from advocates and the executive for appointment to the parole board.

After brief questioning and comments, a committee member moved the bill and it was seconded. The committee approved the motion by voice vote; the clerk recorded the bill as approved by the committee.

Why it matters: S3746 would change the composition of the State Board of Parole by ensuring at least one member has lived experience of incarceration, a step proponents say could add insight to parole decision-making. Opponents and questioners focused on whether the change affects existing eligibility rules or otherwise limits who may serve; the committee was told it does not.

The committee record does not include a roll-call tally or a next-step filing date. The committee concluded the item after the vote.