Tag: Clean Slate Act of 2023

Federal Legislators Reintroduce Clean Slate Act to Automatically Seal Certain Criminal Records May 18, 2023 Representatives Lisa Blunt Rochester and Nancy Mace recently introduced the federal Clean Slate Act of 2023. If passed, it would automatically seal eligible, non-violent marijuana convictions. In addition, it would help individuals arrested for offenses that did not end in conviction. It took several sessions to file the legislation, though the prior version advanced through the House Judiciary Committee in 2022. Unfortunately, it did not reach the floor. However, Representative Rochester commented on the following: "Since coming to Congress, the Clean Slate Act has been one of my top priorities. With 9 in 10 employers conducting background checks, 4 in 5 landlords, and 3 in 5 universities doing the same, we know just how critical it is to give those who have served their time and paid their debt to society a clean slate and a second chance." Currently, those with arrests or convictions on their records can apply for sealing or expunging records at the state level. This offer effectively clears their criminal record. However, there is no such process on the federal level. As such, the criminal history remains on their federal records despite the state-level's erase. Furthermore, pardons indicate relief from legal consequences; it does not prevent potential employers and housing providers from accessing the pardoned information. This bill would allow the government to automatically seal criminal records on the federal level. However, this sealing applies to non-violent offenses, such as possessing marijuana, only. It would also require all arrest and related records to close within 180 days automatically. However, this process is contingent on acquittal, exoneration, or never having charges filed against them. The bill would also provide a new approach to petition courts for sealing non-violent records that did not qualify for automatic expungement. The Clean Slate Act of 2023 would provide employers with a release of liability arising from a misconduct claim related to an employee's sealed criminal record. However, the Act includes convictions that do not qualify for automatic expungement. Examples include sex offenses, convictions of violent crimes, and convictions of national security. Though the bill's future is uncertain, employers should consider reviewing their procedures relating to hiring those with criminal offenses. Including policies that encourage such hires could significantly expand a company's potential labor pool. Changing approaches to accommodate hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds would benefit employers and workers. The best way to get started is to work with an employment screening provider experienced with second-chance hiring programs. Pre-employ makes background checks easy and reliable. Speak with a sales representative today. Source

Tag: Clean Slate Act of 2023

Federal Legislators Reintroduce Clean Slate Act to Automatically Seal Certain Criminal Records

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