Big changes could be underway for the constitutional clemency power granted to the president of the United States, as the Justice Department (DOJ) announced work last week to review, streamline and improve the clemency application process.
These reform efforts could be separated into three areas: transparency/accessibility, efficiency and public engagement.
In terms of transparency, the DOJ took the notable step of updating all of its clemency forms for greater accessibility, including both applications for commutation of sentence and pardon applications. All revised forms and informational materials also now come in Spanish, with work ongoing to translate them into other languages as well. In concert with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the department also indicated it would assist incarcerated individuals with the clemency process going forward through a series of educational seminars.
On the efficiency side, the DOJ moved to reduce processing times by providing additional staff and technical support for the Office of the Pardon Attorney. Having inherited a massive backlog of clemency petitions, the department also indicated it would soon issue letters to petitioners that were not granted clemency to at least give them closure – and the opportunity to submit new petitions.
Lastly, the public engagement side of things will focus on educating the public about how to submit clemency applications and engaging in listening sessions to keep the Justice Department up to date on the needs of clemency petitioners and the public at large.
This reform push will complement recommendations made to the president on how to use his clemency power.