Establish Pardon Pathway for Immigrants and Asylum Seekers

Establish Pardon Pathway for Immigrants and Asylum Seekers I am writing to urge you to take immediate, systematic action to protect Michigan’s immigrant and asylum-seeking residents by granting pardons to those whose criminal records have already been expunged under our state's "Clean Slate" laws. The precedent-setting victory of Lue Yang on March 13, 2026, has provided a clear legal mandate. The courts have now affirmed that a Governor’s pardon in Michigan vacates a conviction as if it had never occurred. This is a critical distinction that federal authorities and ICE cannot ignore. While ICE continues to bypass state-level expungements, a pardon provides an ironclad shield that restores the path to citizenship and protects families from the trauma of detention and deportation. Many of these individuals have already proven themselves to be upstanding members of our community, as evidenced by their successful expungement applications. By pardoning these cases, you would: Prevent Unjust Detentions: Ensuring that "minor" past mistakes do not lead to indefinite federal custody. Facilitate the Return of the Deported: Providing a legal mechanism for those already removed to have their cases reopened and return home to their families. Uphold Michigan’s Sovereignty: Ensuring that Michigan’s "Second Chance" values are respected by federal agencies. Your office can establish a streamlined process to review the cases of non-citizens with expunged records for immediate pardon. Local communities are prepared to assist in compiling a list of eligible candidates who are currently in the shadow of ICE enforcement. Governor, you have spoken frequently about Michigan being a place of welcome and second chances. Now is the time to ensure those promises extend to our immigrant and refugee communities.