Who has the power of executive clemency in the Georgia Constitution?

Who has the power of executive clemency in the Georgia Constitution?

• A. The Governor
• B. The State Board of Pardons and Paroles
• C. The General Assembly
• D. The Supreme Court

Answer: (B)

In Georgia, the power to grant executive clemency is held by the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. This means mercy decisions—like pardons, commutations, and reprieves—are made by that board rather than by the Governor alone or by legislative or judicial bodies. The Governor typically works with the board in the clemency process, but the essential authority rests with the board itself. The General Assembly and the Supreme Court do not have this clemency power under the Georgia Constitution.

In Georgia, the power to grant executive clemency is held by the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. This means mercy decisions—like pardons, commutations, and reprieves—are made by that board rather than by the Governor alone or by legislative or judicial bodies. The Governor typically works with the board in the clemency process, but the essential authority rests with the board itself. The General Assembly and the Supreme Court do not have this clemency power under the Georgia Constitution.