NCJ Number
78832
Date Published
1978
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This memorandum briefly describes the historical origin, composition, and operations of the Wisconsin Parole Board and gives an overview of changes that have occurred in the State's parole system.
Abstract
Wisconsin's existing parole process started in 1907 when the State Board of Control was given the authority to issue a parole to any prisoner in the State prison with the approval of the Governor. In the late 1930's, the functions of the board relating to parole were eventually placed in the Department of Public Welfare, the predecessor to the present Department of Health and Social Services. Among the general duties and responsibilities of the board is the obligation to conduct regularly scheduled interviews on applications for parole of eligible residents at all adult correctional institutions operating under the direction of the department. Although the board is not recognized by specific enabling legislation, the functions of the board are prescribed by the statutes. It appears that the board conducts its duties under administrative orders and directives from the Secretary of the Department, and there are no published administrative rules in the Wisconsin Administrative Code which regulate the board. An administrative order describing the duties, standards, and other matters pertaining to the board is appended.