Bill > SJR14

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the procedures of Oklahoma's Pardon and Parole Board, specifically addressing voting and clemency recommendations for death row inmates. The amendment introduces provisions that prevent a tie vote from automatically denying clemency for death row cases by creating a system of seven alternate board members who can be called upon to break tied votes. These alternate members must be appointed by the same authorities as regular board members (the Governor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and Presiding Judge of the Criminal Court of Appeals) and will have at least 180 days to review clemency applications when called to vote. The proposed change aims to ensure a more comprehensive and fair review process for clemency recommendations in death penalty cases by allowing a mechanism to resolve potential voting deadlocks. If approved by voters, this constitutional amendment would modify the existing framework of the Pardon and Parole Board's operations, providing clearer guidelines for handling clemency recommendations in cases involving capital punishment.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sjr14&Session=2600