Clean Slate Act Officially Signed Into Law!

On November 16th, 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul signed into law the Clean Slate Act, solidifying New York’s position as a pioneer in criminal justice reform. This groundbreaking legislation, considered the most far-reaching automatic records clearance law in the country, promises to bring about significant improvements in employment, housing, and educational prospects for millions of New Yorkers who have served their sentences but faced persistent barriers to rebuilding their lives.

Source: CBS New York/YouTube

The culmination of years of dedicated advocacy, the Clean Slate Act represents a triumph for a diverse coalition of partners from across New York State. The Legal Action Center (LAC) played a pivotal role in this achievement, working tirelessly alongside community leaders and legislators to pave the way for a law that would address the discriminatory policies and practices that have disproportionately affected Black, brown, and lower-income New Yorkers.

The Clean Slate Act introduces a comprehensive approach to automatic records clearance. Misdemeanor convictions will be automatically sealed after three years, while felony convictions will be sealed after eight years, with exceptions for sex offenses and non-drug Class A felonies. Eligibility criteria include completion of probation or parole, the absence of subsequent convictions, and no pending charges. The implementation of the law over the next four years will be overseen by the State’s Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

Paul N. Samuels, LAC’s Director and president, said, “For decades, Legal Action Center has worked to help New Yorkers with conviction records overcome stigma and discriminatory barriers that keep them from jobs, homes, educational opportunities, and more. Governor Hochul’s signing of the Clean Slate Act marks a major victory for the clients we serve, and a significant turning point in the larger fight to restore opportunity for individuals and families throughout the state that have been harmed by mass incarceration. Once again, New York pioneers an important model for the rest of the nation on how to advance truly transformative criminal justice reform. We look forward to working with our partners and the state to realize the full promise of this monumental legislation.”

The Clean Slate Act is poised to make a profound impact on the lives of countless New Yorkers who have been burdened by the long-lasting consequences of their criminal records. Megan French-Marcelin, Sr. Director of NYS Policy, emphasizes the relief the Act brings to those who have faced decades of over-policing and discrimination, stating that eligible individuals will now have the opportunity to access employment, housing, education, and other supportive resources crucial for their well-being.

Sign this petition to get more places to enact the Clean Slate Act!

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