Bill > SJR20

This joint resolution proposes an amendment to the Oregon Constitution that modifies the governor's executive clemency powers. Currently, the governor has the authority to grant reprieves, commutations, and pardons for most criminal offenses (except treason), but the proposed amendment adds a new requirement that any such executive clemency action must be approved by a majority vote of the Oregon Senate after the governor reports the details to the legislative assembly. The resolution specifically changes the language from gendered pronouns (referring to the governor as "he") to gender-neutral terms, and adds a procedural step requiring Senate confirmation of the governor's clemency decisions. If approved, this constitutional amendment would be submitted to Oregon voters at the next regular general election for their final approval or rejection, which is a standard process for proposed state constitutional changes. The amendment aims to provide additional legislative oversight to the executive clemency process while maintaining the governor's fundamental power to grant clemency.

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SJR20