S. 256: Pardon Transparency and Accountability Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Pardon Transparency and Accountability Act of 2025, aims to increase transparency and accountability regarding executive clemency, which includes pardons and other forms of clemency granted by the President of the United States. Below are the main components of the bill:

Statement of Reasons for Pardons

The bill requires the President to publish a written explanation in the Federal Register and on the official presidential website on the same day that any executive clemency is granted. This statement must include the reasons for granting the clemency.

Duties of the Pardon Attorney

The bill assigns specific duties to the Pardon Attorney, including:- **Justice Impact Statement**: When the Pardon Attorney becomes aware of a potential grant of clemency, they must prepare a Justice Impact Statement. This statement should be made available to both the President and Congress as soon as possible, and no later than 30 days after awareness of the clemency consideration.- **Victim Notification**: The Pardon Attorney must attempt to inform victims of the crime associated with the individual receiving clemency, allowing them to submit written statements regarding the clemency.- **External Opinions**: The Pardon Attorney is also tasked with gathering opinions from relevant law enforcement officials concerning the potential impact of the clemency on ongoing cases.

Pardon Lobbying Disclosure

The bill amends the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 to expand the definitions related to lobbying. It requires lobbyists who make contact regarding potential grants of executive clemency to register within two days, regardless of their other lobbying activities. The report filings must include information on lobbying contacts related to clemency.

Studies and Reports

The Pardon Attorney must conduct studies every two years to assess compliance with this Act and submit reports to Congress detailing the findings and any recommendations for improvement.

Severability

The bill includes a provision stating that if any part of the Act is found to be invalid, the remaining sections will still be in effect.

Relevant Companies

None found.