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S-281At second reading in the Senate

Law Changes How Parole is Reviewed

Parole Review Changes

Introduced Nov 7, 2023·Last discussed Nov 8, 2023
Summary

This proposed law wants to change the rules about parole. Parole is when someone in prison gets to leave early, under supervision. This proposed law would make it more difficult for some prisoners to get parole. This change would mostly affect people serving time in federal prisons. Specifically, it would impact those who committed serious crimes. The people who decide on parole would have to think more about the victim of the crime. They would need to consider how releasing the prisoner early could affect the victim's family. This matters because it could mean some people stay in prison longer. It also shows that the government is thinking about the rights and feelings of victims of crime. Some people might think this is a good way to keep communities safe. Others might worry that it makes it too hard for people to get a second chance.

Where This Lands on Key Issues

Where this proposed law falls on the policy spectrums that Canadians care about

Crime & Public SafetyTough on crime, longer sentences

By making it harder for some prisoners to get parole, the bill leans towards a 'tough on crime' approach, emphasizing punishment and potentially longer sentences.

This bill
Bill Quality
Solid

This proposed law aims to prevent offenders convicted of first or second-degree murder from repeatedly applying for parole if their application is denied, cancelled, or terminated. This could reduce the burden on the parole board and prevent re-traumatization of victims' families, but it might limit opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Things to Watch For

  • The law does not define what constitutes a 'review' by the board.
  • It's unclear if this applies retroactively to offenders already serving sentences.
  • The law doesn't address support for offenders who are denied further parole applications.
Progress

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