AR HB1678

Governor may specify that a denial of an application for pardon, commutation of sentence, or remission of fines and forfeitures is issued "with prejudice," which bars the applicant from filing any subsequent applications while that Governor remains in office.

Applicants denied a pardon or commutation must wait 4 years before reapplying for the same offense, or 6-8 years for those sentenced to life without parole (depending on whether the sentence is for capital murder).

If the Governor denies an application pursuant to the 240-day time limit imposed by the Parole Board recommendation, the applicant may immediately file a new application without waiting.

The Parole Board may waive the waiting period if at least 12 months have passed and the applicant demonstrates new material evidence, substantial health deterioration, or other meritorious circumstances.

Amendments to the existing statute modify cross-references and clarify procedures while preserving the requirement that the Governor file notice of intent to grant applications at least 30 days in advance.