Reading Room Document

Powers of the Presidential Clemency Board

The document discusses the powers of the Presidential Clemency Board and addresses questions raised about access to files, subpoena power, and the need for releases from applicants. The conclusions reached are that the Board is not obligated to provide access to its files to law enforcement agencies, does not have the power to issue subpoenas, and may require releases for certain information transfers. The document also presents the question of whether the Board needs to obtain a release from each applicant and discusses the potential legal and policy restrictions on accessing certain types of files.

October 8, 1974