In a historic move on Juneteenth, Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey, alongside Meek Mill and the REFORM Alliance team, including Wallo267, Jessica Jackson, and Erin Haney, announced a groundbreaking initiative to issue systematic, category-driven clemencies. This effort is expected to set new statewide records.
Governor Murphy detailed his plans to issue pardons and commutations, emphasizing expedited consideration for certain clemency applications. The Executive Order signed today outlines categories of pending or future clemency applications eligible for expedited review. For instance, non-violent conviction pardons may be fast-tracked for individuals who have remained free from justice system involvement for a significant period. Others receiving expedited consideration include those serving sentences reflecting excessive trial penalties and victims of domestic or sexual violence or sex trafficking incarcerated for crimes against their perpetrators.
The initiative aims to address and rectify inequities perpetuated in the criminal justice system. The Executive Order also establishes a Clemency Advisory Board, the first of its kind in state history, tasked with reviewing clemency applications and making informed recommendations to the Governor. This board ensures diverse expertise guides the Governor’s decisions.
“As we celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on our nation’s ongoing journey toward racial justice for Black and Brown Americans, I am proud to sign this Executive Order to help address inequities and unfairness in our system of justice in New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “This new clemency initiative is a cornerstone of our Administration’s efforts to make New Jersey the State of Second Chances. Today, we pledge to take a responsible and equity-driven approach to pardons and commutations that will prioritize the most compelling cases.”
“Governor Murphy’s actions today are bigger than a new program or correcting a handful of injustices. This is an entirely new approach to clemency that is going to cut red tape and restore hope, dignity, and opportunity for people unjustly trapped in the system,” said Robert “Meek Mill” Williams, Co-Founder and Co-Chair, REFORM Alliance. “I know personally the life-changing impact that clemency can have. Today’s announcement means that many more people will have an opportunity to reunite with their families, get back on their feet, and chase their dreams. It takes true leadership to use executive power like this, and I applaud Governor Murphy for doing what’s right and taking this bold step.”
“Juneteenth is a time for us to celebrate freedom fighters,” said Wallace “Wallo267” Peeples, Chief Marketing Officer, REFORM Alliance. “Governor Murphy’s clemency initiative honors that spirit. But today, the Governor is not just unlocking physical freedom – he’s unleashing human potential of thousands of people who have been stuck in the system. He’s telling them that their struggles, their growth, and their perseverance matter and can lead to a new beginning for them and their families. This is a game-changer for New Jersey that is going to create a positive ripple effect statewide.”
To support this initiative, a dedicated website (nj.gov/clemency) has been launched for more information on the Governor’s clemency efforts. Over the past six years, the Murphy Administration has implemented several initiatives to provide second chances for justice-involved individuals, solidifying New Jersey’s reputation for progressive criminal justice reforms.
REFORM Alliance, under the leadership of Jessica Jackson and Erin Haney, has collaborated with Governor Murphy and others nationwide to pass 18 bipartisan bills in 11 states, creating pathways for over 800,000 people to exit the justice system.
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