Chairwoman opened the hearing on SB459
Natalie Scott, Revisor's Office, provided an overview of the bill and stood for questions. (Attachment 1)
Sage Hill, State Trooper behalf of Kansas State Troopers Association, provided oral testimony on the written testimony provided by Steve Kearney, in favor of the bill. He stated this bill represents a meaningful and necessary improvement to Kansas parole decision making framework. They believe these changes will strengthen victim participation in parole decisions, ensuring they receive proper notice, and allowing meaningful input. This ensures that before parole is granted, decisions are not made without victim awareness. (Attachment 2)
Sheriff Easter, on behalf of Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police, Kansas Sheriffs Association, Kansas Peace Officers Association, testified in support of the bill. He stated that individuals with expertise and different disciplines to be on the Parole Board, will make better decisions. (Attachment 3)
Proponent, written only testimony was submitted by the following:
Jeremy Noel, Vice President, Kansas State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police (Attachment 4)
Joe Sciarrotta, Chief Deputy Attorney General, Office of the Attorney General (Attachment 5 )
Opponent, written only testimony was submitted by the following:
- Emily Brandt, Criminal Defense Attorney, (Attachment 6)
Lindsie Ford, Senior Assistant Public Defender, BIDS Legislative Committee, provided neutral testimony. She stated they have would like the committee to consider some kind of defense representation to balance out all of the perspectives that would be added to the board if the bill passes as it is currently written. They would also like to see a transition mechanism for the those to are awaiting a hearing in front of this board. (Attachment 7)
Neutral, written only testimony was submitted by the following:
Jeff Zmuda, Secretary, Kansas Department of Corrections (Attachment 8)
Conferees stood for questions and discussion.
Chairwoman Warren closed the hearing on SB459.