Bill > SJR19

This resolution proposes an amendment to the Oregon Constitution that modifies the governor's executive clemency powers. Currently, the governor can grant reprieves, commutations, and pardons for most offenses (except treason), but under the proposed amendment, any commutation or pardon would require subsequent approval by a majority vote in the Oregon State Senate. The resolution maintains the existing requirement that the governor report each case of clemency to the Legislative Assembly, including the reasons for granting the reprieve, commutation, or pardon. The proposed constitutional amendment would be submitted to Oregon voters for approval or rejection at the next regular general election. Specifically, the changes would formalize a new approval process for executive clemency, shifting some decision-making power from the governor to the state senate while preserving the fundamental structure of the clemency process.

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SJR19