The Pardon Commission is a committee dedicated to the review and recommendation for the Governor to forgive a charge on their record. A pardon removes a charge from an individual’s record and excuses any further punishment. While the Pardon Commission isn’t new, it was fully revitalized in 2024 under Governor Barbant. The Pardon Commission is comprised of 5 representatives chosen and organized by the Executive to carefully evaluate if pardon requests should be brought to the Governor for consideration. This committee carefully considers requests based of the crime committed, the efforts the individual has taken to correct their life, their likelihood to recommit, and the unique circumstances of their situation. The final decision for pardons rests with the Governor, however the efforts here are vital in sorting through the numerous requests received.