WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SJ 17

RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE NOMINATION OF ROBERT L. CIZAUSKAS OF TORRINGTON TO BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF PARDONS AND PAROLES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Stafstrom and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut legislature confirms Robert L. Cizauskas to Board of Pardons and Paroles with limited public vetting or disclosed qualifications.

IN CONCURRENCE
#nominations #pardonsandparoles #boardof
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJ 17

Legislative bill overview

This resolution confirms the nomination of Robert L. Cizauskas of Torrington to serve on Connecticut's Board of Pardons and Paroles. The bill was introduced by Senator Gary Winfield and Representative Steve Stafstrom and has already been adopted by both the Senate and House.

Why is this important

The Board of Pardons and Paroles makes consequential decisions about prisoner release, commutations, and parole eligibility—directly affecting public safety and the lives of incarcerated individuals and crime victims. Board members wield significant discretionary power over thousands of cases annually, making their appointment a matter of public interest.

Potential points of contention

  • Limited public vetting: The bill moved through the consent calendar with suspended rules, limiting opportunities for public comment or detailed questioning of the nominee's qualifications and judicial philosophy
  • Lack of transparency: The resolution provides no biographical details, professional background, or stated positions on pardon/parole criteria that would allow public assessment of the nominee's approach
  • Board composition concerns: No information is provided about whether this appointment addresses existing imbalances in how the board evaluates rehabilitation, victim impact, or sentencing disparities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.