83R808 BEF-D
By: Ellis S.J.R. No. 7
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 or successful
completion of a term of deferred adjudication community
supervision, 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 5, 2013.
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."