Influential body welcomes first members of color in 30-plus years, plus vets groundbreaking transgender judicial nominee
Attorneys argue: “Because the non-homicide sentences govern when [Chism] is eligible for parole, he can’t see the Parole Board for 40 years where it would be 30 years at most for any juvenile sentenced to first-degree murder.”
Who are the Massachusetts governor’s councilors? What professional baggage do they bring to the body? And can this motley crew stumble toward reform?
With its hollow rules, ethical dilemmas, and reluctance to address a lack of transparency and other problems, the Governor’s Council has no clothes
First “emerging adult” parole hearing held in Massachusetts since historic ruling on life without parole for those under 21
For centuries, critics have questioned whether the Governor’s Council, rife with conflict, should exist. In 2024, is the body obsolete?
The Massachusetts Parole Board still faces big challenges despite making some improvements this past year. Its final member was approved this week, but is the body equipped to operate efficiently?
What the Mattis decision means for parole in Massachusetts—unprecedented opportunities for release from life sentences, updated trainings for attorneys, and a big shift in the system
Concerned about the “onerous conditions of parole” and longstanding cruel procedures, legislators and reform advocates push major legislative and cultural changes.
Massachusetts lawmakers are considering legislation that would reexamine harsh and mandatory prison sentences. The policy, which follows national trends, could have a significant impact on more than 1,800 people behind bars and their families.
