Texas Senate Bill SJR9

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/21/11
• Introduced: 11/8/10
• Voted on by Senate: 3/23/11
• Refer: 2/2/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/9/11
• Report Pass: 3/21/11
• Voted on by House: 5/23/11
• Engrossed: 3/23/11
• Sent toSOS: 5/27/11
• Refer: 3/30/11
• Report Pass: 5/7/11
• Enrolled: 5/24/11

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the governor to grant a pardon to a person who successfully completes a term of deferred adjudication community supervision.

Impact

The implications of SJR9 are notably substantial for the state's criminal justice framework. By enabling the Governor to grant pardons to those who have successfully completed their terms of deferred adjudication, the bill may facilitate a more rehabilitative approach to criminal justice. This could potentially lead to decreased recidivism rates, as individuals receive a second chance at becoming productive members of society free from the stigma of a criminal conviction. Furthermore, this legislative change may reflect broader trends towards criminal justice reform in Texas.

Summary

SJR9 is a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to allow the Governor to grant pardons to individuals who have successfully completed a term of deferred adjudication community supervision. This bill is significant as it seeks to revise Article IV of the Texas Constitution, specifically empowering the Governor to exercise this authority with the recommendation of the Board of Pardons and Paroles. If passed, the amendment will expand the avenues through which individuals can seek clemency and reintegration into society after fulfilling their community supervision requirements.

Conclusion

SJR9 intends to modernize and improve the existing pardon process for individuals completing deferred adjudication. By allowing the Governor to grant pardons, the legislation could help bridge the gap between punishment and rehabilitation within the state's justice system. Ultimately, the bill embodies a significant step towards addressing issues related to the stigma of criminal convictions and supports a more restorative form of justice.

Contention

While proponents argue that SJR9 promotes fairness and offers a necessary pathway for reintegration, there are concerns among critics regarding the potential for abuse of power by the Governor. Critics may question whether the change adequately safeguards against arbitrary decision-making regarding pardons. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about the Board of Pardons and Paroles' role and influence in the process, particularly how their recommendations align with public sentiment regarding crime and punishment.