California lawmakers dismiss bill to give convicted murderers serving life without parole a chance at release

"Sen. Dave Cortese's SB 94, seeking to provide parole opportunities for inmates serving life without parole for murders committed before 1990, faced legislative dismissal despite two years of efforts."

"Cortese expressed deep disappointment, stating the bill met with political resistance, emphasizing that SB 94 failed to receive a full legislative hearing and vote, undermining its purpose."

"Victim-rights advocates opposed the bill, with Assemblyman Alanis stating that protecting victims’ rights is paramount, rejecting any potential reopening of past trauma through inmate releases."

"The Ella Baker Center for Human Rights referred to SB 94 as modest reform, arguing it would allow for a reevaluation of long-standing sentences without compromising certain serious offenses."

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