Concern about prison overcrowding in West Virginia has helped advance legislation that would speed up parole for the state's least-risky nonviolent inmates.

Thursday's 84-14 vote by the House of Delegates sends the measure back to the Senate.

House Judiciary had expanded the range of crimes against children that would bar inmates from seeking accelerated parole. The committee also voted to exclude drug felons sentenced to consecutive terms.

Those changes add to the other hurdles set when Gov. Joe Manchin proposed the measure. Among other conditions, inmates would be rigorously screened and must complete an advanced rehabilitation program.

Supporters say the bill would ensure prison space for offenders deemed an immediate threat to society.

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