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Proposed Amendment: Congress Can Nullify Presidential Pardons.

This proposed constitutional amendment introduces a significant check on the President's pardon power, allowing Congress to nullify a pardon or reprieve with a two-thirds vote in both houses. This change aims to increase accountability and transparency in the justice system by subjecting executive clemency decisions to legislative review. Citizens gain greater oversight regarding high-profile criminal justice outcomes and the balance of power.
Key points
The President must notify Congress of any pardon within 3 days, or the pardon is void.
Congress has the power to nullify a pardon within 60 days by a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate.
Pardons only take effect 90 days after notification, provided Congress does not nullify them.
The President cannot re-grant a pardon previously nullified by Congress.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HJRES_135
Sponsor: Rep. Olszewski, Johnny [D-MD-2]
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the pardon power of the President.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HJRES_135.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • The President must notify Congress of any pardon within 3 days, or the pardon is void.
  • Congress has the power to nullify a pardon within 60 days by a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate.
  • Pardons only take effect 90 days after notification, provided Congress does not nullify them.
  • The President cannot re-grant a pardon previously nullified by Congress.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Olszewski, Johnny [D-MD-2].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-22.

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