A Glimpse Back at CSI’s Congressional Briefing on The Clean Slate Act of 2023
Blog Post by Reginald Darby, Legislative Director
We are thrilled to share the exciting highlights of the recent Congressional Briefing, "The Clean Slate Act: A Fresh Start for Second Chances," held on July 26, 2023. The event was an overwhelming success, bringing together interested congressional staff, passionate individuals, and esteemed panelists to rally behind the significant legislative milestone, H.R. 2930, the Clean Slate Act of 2023.
The briefing, moderated by Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative, featured a dynamic panel of experts dedicated to breaking barriers and supporting second chances. Panelists included Nan Gibson from JPMorgan Chase, Frank Russo representing the Conservative Political Action Coalition, Jill Snider from R Street Institute, and Maggie O’Donnell from Responsible Business Initiative for Justice.
The event centered on the pivotal role of the Clean Slate Act in helping to remove barriers to education, employment, housing, and more for people living with a federal record. The legislation seeks to seal eligible federal records and automate the process, providing a much-needed pathway to rehabilitation, reintegration, and the restoration of rights.
Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, a Clean Slate champion and the lead Democrat sponsor of H.R. 2930, delivered a passionate call to action during her special remarks. She urged federal legislators to support the Clean Slate Act and cosponsor the bill to address the urgent need for reform and its profound impact on individuals, families, and the American economy.
The Clean Slate Act not only offers a fresh start for individuals but also holds great promise for our economy. By removing barriers and opening up opportunities for those with sealed records, the act expands the pool of available talent and strengthens the American workforce.
We are grateful for the overwhelming attendance and support from our community. Together, we can pave the way for a future where everyone has access to freedom and the ability to thrive. Let’s continue to unite in our efforts to create a society where barriers to education, employment, housing, and public safety are effectively addressed through the passage of H.R. 2930, the Clean Slate Act of 2023. Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards a brighter, more inclusive future.