As the Advisory Board of Pardons, the Massachusetts Parole Board reviews petitions for executive clemency and makes recommendations to the Governor regarding petitions.
The power to grant executive clemency (i.e. pardons and commutations) is held in Massachusetts by the Governor, with the advice of the Governor's Council. The Advisory Board of Pardons ensures that the requirements for executive clemency are met, conducts investigations about petitioners, determines whether a hearing should be held, and makes recommendations to the Governor accordingly. See Governor's Clemency Guidelines under 'Additional Resources' for further information.
