Us Congress House Bill HJR77

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/21/23
• Refer: 6/21/23

Caption

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States limiting the pardon power of the President.

Impact

The proposed amendment seeks to have a profound impact on the structure of presidential powers, particularly concerning the checks and balances doctrine. By limiting the pardon power, the amendment would ensure that the President cannot unilaterally absolve individuals involved in actions that could be perceived as corrupt or self-serving. It addresses concerns about the potential for pardons to be used as tools for political favors and ensures that future presidencies cannot exert undue influence over the justice system through strategic pardoning.

Summary

HJR77 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, aimed at limiting the presidential pardon power. The amendment specifies that the President will not have the authority to grant pardons to themselves, family members, or individuals who have worked closely with the President, including campaign workers and administration members. This proposed change intends to prevent any potential abuse of the pardon power that could arise from personal interests and conflicts of interest, thereby promoting greater accountability within the executive branch.

Contention

While supporters argue that HJR77 is necessary to remove the potential for corruption and enhance the integrity of the office of the President, critics may view it as an infringement on executive powers. There are discussions about whether this limitation disrupts the essential balance of power defined by the framers of the Constitution. The amendment’s advocates emphasize the need for accountability over the preservation of expansive presidential authority, indicating a significant shift in how such powers are exercised within the American political landscape.