The Pennsylvania state seal in Harrisburg. File photo.
The Pennsylvania Board of Pardons has launched a new online clemency application and a Spanish-language version to simplify the process for individuals seeking a second chance.
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who chairs the Board of Pardons, announced the new digital tools, highlighting efforts to make the clemency application more transparent and accessible.
“After hearing from nearly 1,500 pardon applicants over the past two-plus years, I’ve seen how many of these folks have worked hard to turn their lives around, make amends and are now contributing positively to their communities,” said Davis, a Democrat. “They’re fathers, mothers, aunts and uncles – and many of them have earned a second chance and a clean slate moving forward.
The new online application is the result of collaboration with the Commonwealth Office of Digital Experience Pennsylvania (CODE PA).
“The online application is a significant milestone for CODE PA and the Board of Pardons as we work together to modernize the office and make the process more accessible, streamlined, and empathetic,” said Bry Pardoe, executive director of CODE PA. “The goal of every CODE PA project is to make getting what you need from the Commonwealth faster and easier, and we’re proud to support the Board of Pardons in helping more people pursue this potentially life-changing second chance opportunity.”
In addition to the online form, a fillable PDF application and a Spanish PDF application were added to the Board of Pardons’ website in May. The website, including the application form, can also be translated into 17 other languages.
The Board of Pardons plans to work with a translation company to process applications in other languages.
Behind-the-scenes updates are also underway, including the use of artificial intelligence to analyze handwritten applications, a task previously done manually by staff, according to Davis’ office.
Megan Reinprecht, staff attorney for Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania, praised the move.
“In my experience, individuals can unfortunately face barriers to submitting an application such as not being able to print documents or not being able to mail the application for submission,” said Reinprecht. “An online application will help some individuals overcome these barriers and make the process more accessible.”
Since Davis took office and became chair, the board has recommended more than 1,000 pardon applications to Gov. Josh Shapiro.
In December 2023, Shapiro signed “Clean Slate” legislation that streamlined the process for pardoned Pennsylvanians to clear their criminal records. In July 2023, the Board of Pardons expanded its “expedited review” process, with all applications now automatically reviewed for eligibility by board staff.
The 2023-2024 state budget also included a $355,000 investment for a dedicated clemency unit within the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections to address a backlog of pardon and commutation applications.
