Expediting review of sentences when there exists a pending deportation proceeding.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Noel Frame and 3 co-sponsors

Expedite CPB review of clemency petitions tied to urgent immigration needs (pending deportation), with eligibility for pardons/restoration unaffected by immigration status.

Senate Rules "X" file.

Purpose and intent

SB 5103 would modify how Washington’s Clemency and Pardons Board (CPB) handles petitions for clemency, pardons, and restoration of civil rights when there is an urgent need tied to an immigration-related proceeding. Specifically, it requires the CPB to consider expedited review for petitions that indicate an urgent need for pardon or commutation, including a pending deportation order or deportation proceeding. The bill also clarifies that eligibility for pardons, commutations, or restoration of civil rights is without regard to immigration status.

What the bill would do

Reenacts and amends RCW 9.94A.885 to add an expedited-review pathway.

If a petitioner states an urgent need for pardon/commutation (e.g., pending deportation), the CPB must consider expedited review of that petition.

Maintains the current structure of clemency review: petitions are evaluated, hearings may be held, and the Governor makes the final decision.

Adds a broad non-discrimination provision: eligibility for pardon, commutation, or restoration of civil rights is not limited by immigration status.

No new appropriations are required (no appropriation enacted); fiscal note remains available.

Effective date: 90 days after the adjournment of the session in which the bill is enacted.

Key provisions and changes

New expedited-review standard: The CPB must prioritize petitions that indicate an urgent need, including those connected to deportation orders or deportation proceedings.

Eligibility regardless of immigration status: People facing deportation or with pending immigration matters can petition for pardon, commutation, or restoration of civil rights on the same basis as others.

CPB process remains: The board still gathers petitions, may hold hearings, notifies county prosecutors (30 days prior to hearings), considers victim and witness input, and then makes a recommendation to the Governor, who retains final authority.

Timeline and hearings: The existing requirement that a hearing be held before recommending clemency remains, with associated procedural protections (notice, opportunity to present statements, etc.).

Who would be affected

Individuals subject to criminal convictions who are facing deportation or have pending deportation proceedings in the U.S.

Washington residents seeking pardons, commutations, or restoration of civil rights, regardless of immigration status.

The CPB, prosecutors, victims’ advocates, and law enforcement agencies involved in the clemency process.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status in the Legislature: As of the latest actions, the bill has moved through Senate activities and reached the House, with a resolution Returning it to Senate Rules for third reading reported in April 2025.

Effective date: 90 days after adjournment of the session in which enacted.

No separate appropriation; fiscal note acknowledged.

Potential impact and considerations

May provide faster relief for individuals in urgent deportation situations, potentially mitigating harsh immigration outcomes.

Ensures equal eligibility for clemency regardless of immigration status, aligning with equal opportunity principles.

Could affect the timing of deportation proceedings by introducing expedited clemency action, while preserving Governor's discretion.

Administrative impact on CPB workload and resource needs, though no new funding is provided in the bill.

Bill