Former Felons Can Now Earn Themselves a Clean Slate Here!

In New York, the United States, former felons who have not only paid their debt to society but also managed to stay out of trouble will see their criminal records sealed, giving them a real chance at getting their life back.

“This legislation is not about criminal justice only. It isn’t just about public safety. It isn’t just about economic justice. It isn’t just about equity and fairness,” explains Catalina Cruz, the bill’s Assembly sponsor. “It’s about redemption.”

The Clean Slate Act is meant to help people who did their time and paid for their crimes re-enter society by sealing their old criminal record following a set period of time – eight years for felonies and three years for misdemeanors – away from trouble. Serious crimes such as murder, terrorism, kidnapping, and sex crimes would not be sealed. Drug-related felonies would be sealed. Both business and labor groups are in favor of such an initiative proposed by the Democrats because it reduces recidivism and boosts the economy.