HB 23-1214

HB 23-1214 is a Colorado bill that sets up a formal process for people in prison to apply to have their sentences reduced or changed. It creates a new position called an executive clemency representative who will help manage the application process and gather information from prosecutors and victims. The bill also lists factors the board can consider when reviewing these applications, but ultimately it's the governor’s decision whether to approve them. However, Governor Polis vetoed this bill on May 16, 2023, which means its provisions will not be implemented despite being signed into law initially.

Official Summary

The act formalizes and establishes details concerning the process for an incarcerated individual (applicant) to apply for a commutation of sentence. The process includes the creation of a new position of an executive clemency representative. The executive clemency representative is responsible for coordinating all aspects of the applicant's application, including gathering information from the district attorney who prosecuted the applicant's case. The district attorney is responsible for notifying the victim and victim's family of the application. A list of factors is set forth that executive clemency board may consider when evaluating the applicant's application. The governor retains the ultimate decision-making authority whether to commute a sentence. The act appropriates $28,221 to the office of the governor from the general fund to implement the act. VETOED by Governor May 16, 2023 (Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

Votes