Washington state Clemency and Pardons Board will be expanded

Washington's Clemency and Pardons Board will expand from five to ten members to better manage the increasing number of clemency applications. The board's limited meeting schedule has resulted in individuals waiting multiple years for hearings, a significant delay compared to the previous months-long process. House Bill 1131, introduced by Rep. Roger Goodman, seeks to enhance mid-sentence reviews and possible releases. The new law requires board members to represent diverse backgrounds, including incarcerated individuals and representatives from crime victim organizations, and allows members to receive up to $100 per day.

Governor Bob Ferguson partially vetoed the bill, removing a provision that would delay its implementation without funding. He noted that the Legislature allocated $416,000 for the board's expansion but did not provide funding for a staff position at the governor's office. Ferguson intends to seek necessary funding in the next budget cycle to support the board's work. This expansion aims to create a more balanced and efficient clemency review process in Washington state.