A fresh chapter begins for Hal Nash.

The former Chief Correction Deputy at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has stepped into the role of chair for the Alabama Commission on Pardonment and Parole.

Cam Ward, Director of Alabama’s Department of Amnesty and Parole, administered the oath to Nash on Monday. Following this, Nash will lead the parole committee meeting that starts today.

Last week, Governor Kay Ivey announced her selection of Nash as chair, choosing him from a group of five candidates on a board that includes the lieutenant governor, the House Speaker, and the Senate president.

“I am thankful for Governor Ivey’s trust in me and am eager to serve the people of Alabama,” Nash expressed. “With over 30 years in law enforcement, I recognize the significance of our responsibility in protecting and serving the public.”

“We plan to collaborate with fellow board members and partner with the Bureau and its executives, working diligently to create a safer and stronger state.”

Before his tenure at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Nash worked at the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office along with other law enforcement positions.

Nash is also an active leader in community organizations, holding the role of international vice president for Jacee’s and participating on multiple public boards like the Chattanooga/Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Board and as the president of the Jackson County Hospital Bureau.

“Hal Nash is an excellent appointment by Governor Ivey. His background reflects well on our law enforcement community,” Ward stated. “While the Bureau operates independently of the Board, we look forward to cooperating with board members to enhance the safety of our citizens and facilitate a constructive reintegration for those formerly incarcerated in Alabama.”

The board exists separately from the department, functioning within the legislative division of Alabama’s government. It’s the sole legal authority for recognizing or denying parole for individuals, made up of three members who serve six-year terms.

The Bureau, distinct from the Board of Amnesty and Parole, is administered separately, with its director appointed by the governor. It is responsible for providing administrative and legal guidance to the Board.

Moreover, the Director holds the necessary authority to establish rules, guidelines, or other policies to fulfill the Commission’s duties as mandated by law, excluding areas like permits, pardons, political and civil rights restoration, remission of fines, forfeitures, and revocation of parole.