2025 Legislative Session Begins January 13th.
More Bill details will be updated as we get closer!

Bill #: TBD - Clemency & Pardons Board

Previously: HB1189

This legislation seeks to expand the Clemency & Pardons Board by adding five community members: a representative from a community of color, a formerly incarcerated individual, a Native American, a victims’ advocate, and a member of the faith community experienced in reentry success. These additional members will apply a racial equity lens to evaluate petitions, ensuring a fairer and more inclusive clemency process that prioritizes equity and justice for all.

Sponsors
Rep. Goodman (45th LD)

Background
WashingtonCAN and the NAACP State Area Conference have brought this bill to the legislature since the 2017-2018 legislative session. In 2024, this bill did not get the movement we fought for. In 2025, the bill has been revised and will be sponsored.

FAQs
Who qualifies to be reviewed by this board? Everyone qualifies for review by the Clemency & Pardons Board.

If this bill passes, does that mean the “Green River Killer” has a chance of being released? No, his plea agreement disqualifies him.

If the Clemency and Pardons Board decide to release the person from total confinement, what happens next? The CPB makes a recommendation for or against clemency. This is passed onto the Governor who makes the final decision. The CPB decides what the condition of release will be (e.g. community supervision).

If you have questions or would like to learn more?
Contact WashingtonCAN’s Political Director

Waldo E. Waldron-Ramsey