Lt. Gov. Austin Davis backs House Speaker Joanna McClinton's legislation to improve Commutations Process

As part of the Shapiro-Davis Administration’s commitment to making Pennsylvania a place for second chances, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis endorsed House Speaker Joanna McClinton’s constitutional amendment to update the commutations process.

HARRISBURG, October 16, 2023 – “As chair of the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons, I have a huge responsibility resting on my shoulders,” said Lt. Gov. Davis. “These decisions we make impact lives, families, and whole communities. I do not make those decisions lightly.

“Both Governor Shapiro and I believe that Pennsylvania is a place for second chances. We believe that people have the capacity to change, to make amends, to return to the community, and make our Commonwealth a better place through their example. However, the current system for commutations does not reflect that vision. That’s why I’m supporting Speaker Joanna McClinton’s legislation to improve the commutations process, empower each member of the Board of Pardons to vote their conscience, and allow for meritorious applicants to have a greater opportunity for a second chance.”