(a) This section applies only to an inmate:
(1) who is serving a sentence for an offense under Chapter 481, Health and Safety Code, that is punishable as a felony of the third degree;
(2) who has not previously been convicted of a felony under Title 5, Penal Code, or under Chapter 43 or 71 of that code; and
(3) whose eligibility for parole is computed under § 508.145(f).
(b) Notwithstanding any other law, a parole panel may release on parole an inmate described by Subsection (a) approximately 180 days before the date the inmate would be eligible for release on parole under § 508.145(f).

(c) A parole panel releasing an inmate on parole under this section shall require as a condition of release on parole that the inmate participate in a program operated under § 493.034, to begin immediately following the inmate’s release on parole.
(d) For purpose of consideration by a parole panel for early release on parole under Subsection (b), the department shall annually identify not fewer than 100 inmates described by Subsection (a) who are suitable candidates for participation in a program operated under § 493.034. The board and the department shall jointly adopt rules for identifying inmates under this subsection. The rules must require the board or the department to notify an inmate that the inmate is being considered for release on parole under this section.
(e) The board shall adopt rules governing the release of an inmate on parole under this section.
(f) An inmate who is considered for but not granted release on parole under this section shall be considered for release on parole on the date that the inmate otherwise would have been considered for release on parole under this chapter.