Shapiro’s Clemency Actions Under Scrutiny as Advocates Push for Reform
HARRISBURG — In his initial two years as governor, Josh Shapiro has signed approximately 50% of the clemency applications recommended by the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons, a contrast to the more robust clemency actions seen under former governor Tom Wolf. Wolf’s administration, particularly during his second term, saw a surge in pardons and commutations, granting over 1,600 applications—double what he approved in his first term.
Shapiro’s administration has made strides to improve the clemency application process, yet he has been slower to act on received applications. Of the nearly 900 requests sent to his desk, he has approved about half, formally rejecting only 26, leaving many applications pending. Advocates for criminal justice reform are voicing concerns over this slower pace, feeling disheartened by the contrast to the previous administration.
The Pennsylvania Board of Pardons, which includes the lieutenant governor and the attorney general, evaluates clemency applications, sending meritorious ones to the governor for final sign-off. While the board has seen increased applications, particularly post-Wolf, the number of commutation recommendations under Shapiro has dwindled, causing disappointment among advocates.
Reform advocates, buoyed by prior progress and Shapiro’s earlier campaign pledges, feel the state may be reverting to a more cautious approach reminiscent of past administrations. Despite the board’s recent expansion of its staff and introduction of expedited processes for nonviolent offenders, the actual rate of life sentence commutations remains low, with just eight recommended for 2023 and 2024.
Advocates hope that ongoing dialogues about potential reforms and improved processing will lead to a more favorable environment for those seeking second chances in Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system.
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