Purpose

In 1946, the Pardon and Parole Board was established through Article VI, Section 10 in the Oklahoma Constitution. The five-member, part-time board is charged with making impartial investigations and reviews of applicants requesting pardons,  commutations, and clemency or those eligible for paroles. The Pardon and Parole Board, by majority vote, may grant parole for non-violent offenses, providing restrictions, limitations, and services as deemed appropriate. In addition, the Pardon and Parole Board may, by majority vote, make recommendations to the Governor on violent offenses for parole, including suggestions for restrictions, limitations, and services as deemed appropriate. In addition, the Board may make recommendations to the Governor regarding pardons, commutations, and clemency.

Members of the Board are appointed. Three (3) are appointed by the Governor, one (1) by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and one (1) by the presiding Judge of the Court of Criminal Appeals. The Board holds office coterminous with that of the Governor but can be reappointed.  Board members are removable only for cause in the manner provided by law for elective officers not liable to impeachment.

If vacancies occur, the appointing authority selects a replacement member before the term expires.  The positions of chairperson and vice chairperson are elected by majority vote of the Board.

MISSION

The mission of the Pardon and Parole Board is to serve the citizens of Oklahoma by making careful and informed decisions which focus on ensuring public safety, protecting victims’ rights, and providing offenders with the opportunity for positive change through careful and informed decisions on the parole for non-violent offenders and making careful and informed recommendations to the Governor regarding the parole of violent offenders, as well as for pardons, commutations, and clemency requests.