Tag: Schenectady City Council

The Schenectady City Council Is Considering Supporting the Clean Slate Bill January 13, 2023 The Schenectady City Council will consider whether to endorse a proposed state law. The law would seal the records for people who previously faced incarceration. In June, the State Senate passed the Clean Slate Act. It would automatically seal the records of state prisoners once they have finished their jail time, parole, and probation with no further convictions. Unfortunately, the General Assembly has yet to vote on it. Those with misdemeanor incarcerations could see these records sealed three years after sentencing. However, this time does not include time spent in prison. The records for former prisoners convicted of felonies would automatically expunge seven years after the sentence. However, the legislation removes eligibility for record sealing if the prisoner faced convictions for sex crimes. One city councilman stated that the law would allow individuals to fully re-enter society, which has proven difficult due to the long-lasting effects of COVID-19. The most significant difficulties include unemployment and obtaining safe and affordable housing. The municipalities of Hudson and Poughkeepsie have stated they support the bill. In addition, the Albany City Council passed a resolution supporting the proposed legislation in September. The Business Council of New York State also supports the proposed state law. The council's board president said that she believes it makes sense and is about economic justice. A former state prisoner, now the CEO of a business, explained some challenges when re-entering society after his release from prison. He cited how having a criminal record raised challenging barriers during his re-entry. For example, he mentioned repeated rejections from work opportunities. In addition, he could not return to college because he did not qualify for various grants. As such, the CEO admitted he believes this bill could prove beneficial for local businesses. In addition, he explained how it could help fill many of the vacancies caused by the pandemic. Though he acknowledges he managed to redefine his life despite the barriers, he believes in the potential success of other individuals if the bill removed these barriers. However, not everyone supports the proposed state law, such as the Schenectady GOP Chairman. For example, the chairman believes employers and landlords could no longer consider the risks of having these individuals as tenants or employees with the records sealed. The Schenectady City Council plans to continue discussing whether to support the proposed state law. In the meantime, businesses should keep an eye on the bill's progress. While watching, they should prepare to adjust their hiring practices to comply with the law if it passes. Partnering with a background check company could help the business comply with the many laws regulating hiring practices. Keep your business up to date on new laws and regulations with Pre-employ’s free news resources contacting a sales rep today. Source

Tag: Schenectady City Council

The Schenectady City Council Is Considering Supporting the Clean Slate Bill

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