Washington's approach to clemency and pardons is poised for change. Governor Bob Ferguson has put his signature on House Bill 1131, ushering in a series of impactful amendments to the state's Clemency and Pardons Board (CPB). The CPB's role is critical, deciding the fate of those seeking commutations, pardons, and the restoration of rights post-conviction. "Any decision to pardon an individual or commute a sentence must, of course, be made with great care," said Ferguson, marking the importance of careful and just deliberation in these cases.
Under the new legislation, which saw sponsorship from Rep. Roger Goodman, D-Kirkland, the CPB's capacity is set to expand from five members to ten. This expansion is not solely in number but in scope; the new law offers a richer variety of board member experiences. To bolster this, training for members will be enhanced, and their compensation, increased. Turning away from the "extraordinary" review standard, the CPB will now operate under the "in the interest of justice" criterion, more closely mirroring the judicial system's principles.
The backlog of cases, a critical concern that has left many awaiting their moment for a hearing, is expected to reduce significantly. Goodman pointed out that many within Washington’s prisons are "waiting nearly a year or more for an opportunity to be heard and share how they have changed their lives for the better." The new law's projected outcome is a quadrupled annual review rate for the CPB, tackling the existing delay head-on. Also noteworthy, the bill empowers the CPB to fast-track cases for community members at risk of deportation.
In terms of composition, the revamped CPB will include a diverse set of members: a person from an underrepresented community with first-hand experience in the criminal justice system, a person well acquainted with incarceration either through personal experience or work with the formerly incarcerated, a faith-based organization or church representative committed to successful community reentry, someone versed in tribal affairs, and two voices representing crime victims. Goodman asserted that the CPB has a highly respected review record and hailed the collaborative work with community advocates to propel the legislation. "I was happy to work with community advocates to push this legislation forward and bring much needed support for the CPB so it can be even more effective and efficient," he said, underscoring the aim for a more robust and fair board.
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