82R982 MAW-D
By: Ellis S.J.R. No. 44
A JOINT RESOLUTION
proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the governor to
grant one or more reprieves in a capital case.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 11(b), Article IV, Texas Constitution,
is amended to read as follows:
(b) In all criminal cases, except treason and impeachment,
the Governor shall have power, after conviction, on the written
signed recommendation and advice of the Board of Pardons and
Paroles, or a majority thereof, to grant reprieves and commutations
of punishment and pardons; and under such rules as the Legislature
may prescribe, and upon the written recommendation and advice of a
majority of the Board of Pardons and Paroles, he shall have the
power to remit fines and forfeitures. The Governor shall have the
power to grant one or more reprieves [reprieve] in any capital case
for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days for each reprieve; and
he shall have power to revoke conditional pardons. With the advice
and consent of the Legislature, he may grant reprieves,
commutations of punishment and pardons in cases of treason.
SECTION 2. This proposed constitutional amendment shall be
submitted to the voters at an election to be held November 8, 2011.
The ballot shall be printed to permit voting for or against the
proposition: "The constitutional amendment authorizing the
governor to grant one or more reprieves in a capital case."