This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment limiting the pardon power of the President.The amendment prohibits the President from granting a pardon or reprieve to himself or herself, to relatives or members of the administration, to paid campaign employees, to a person or entity for an offense motivated by an interest of any of those people, or to a person or entity for an offense directed by or coordinated with the President.The amendment also invalidates pardons issued for a corrupt purpose.
If enacted, HJR13 would fundamentally alter the framework of presidential powers as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, which has long provided a broad authority for Presidents to grant pardons and reprieves. The changes would infuse greater oversight and limitations on how these powers can be exercised, particularly relating to self-interest and potential conflicts of interest. This could lead to a significant precedent in maintaining ethical standards within the executive branch and enhancing governmental accountability.
HJR13 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at limiting the pardon power of the President of the United States. Specifically, the resolution stipulates that the President cannot grant pardons to themselves, their family members (up to a third-degree relation), current or former members of the administration, campaign employees, or individuals whose offenses were influenced by personal interests. This amendment seeks to establish stricter controls to prevent abuses of power associated with the presidential pardon authority.
The proposal has stirred debate and concern in political and legal circles. Advocates argue that limiting the pardon power is a necessary measure to ensure accountability and prevent potential corruption, particularly in the context of high-profile cases. Detractors, however, may argue that such limitations could undermine the President's ability to offer clemency, potentially affecting their capacity to respond flexibly to instances of injustice. The amendment raises important questions about the balance of power within the government and the role of presidential discretion in the justice system.
Crime and Law Enforcement