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It's Time for a
Federal Clean Slate
States have paved the way on second chances. Now it's time for Congress to do its part.
The Problem
States have led the way in passing Clean Slate automation policies, putting more than 14 million people on the path to having a fully sealed record in the 12 states that have passed legislation meeting The Clean Slate Initiative’s policy minimums.
Currently, however, there is no standard process for sealing federal records. There are very limited avenues for someone to seal a federal record, like when an arrest or conviction was found to be invalid or a clerical error was made, but those opportunities are comparatively rare.
The federal government does have a pardon process in place, which is different from having a record sealed, because the pardon simply "forgives" the crime - it does not seal a person's record. Therefore, even for those who are able to receive a federal pardon, their record can still be a barrier, blocking access to housing, employment, education, and more.
The Solution
The solution to this federal second chance challenge is simple: Clean Slate. Codifying Federal Clean Slate policies would create the first-ever standard sealing process for federal records, expand access to second chances through automation, and help fiscally support state efforts to implement Clean Slate policies.
Once people complete their sentence and remain crime-free for a period of time, they deserve the opportunity to live a life that is not restrained by the barriers of their record. By passing federal Clean Slate legislation, Congress can ensure people in America have a fair shot at living productive and fulfilling lives.
Bipartisan support for second chances, in the states and in the 119th Congress, demonstrates a broad agreement that a past mistake should not be a life sentence to poverty. States have led the way on second chances, and now it’s time for Congress to do its part.
It's Time for Action
In the past two Congresses, lawmakers have introduced bipartisan Clean Slate legislation that would:
- Create the first-ever process for sealing a federal arrest or conviction record,
- Automatically seal federal simple possession or nonviolent records involving marijuana, and
- Create a federal grant program enabling states to apply for federal funds to implement Clean Slate laws.
But Congress hasn’t gotten those bills across the finish line. Take action today and urge your members of Congress to prioritize federal Clean Slate legislation in 2025 and support states that have led the charge in cutting red tape and streamlining the record-sealing process.
Federal Campaign Updates
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Second Chance Language: Understanding the Differences Between Types of Record Relief
Record relief is making headlines across the country as discussions around second chances take center stage. With terms like pardon, clemency, expungement, and Clean Slate frequently appearing in the media, it’s more important than ever to understand the key differences between them. Learn more in this update from Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director.
Second Chances Embody Conservative Values: The Case for Clean Slate
Republican lawmakers have a unique opportunity in 2025: They can build the momentum of Clean Slate by championing the legislation at the state and federal levels, and play a leading role in unlocking opportunities for millions of Americans, boosting our economy, and making our communities safer. Learn more in this contributed update from Jason Pye, Vice President at Due Process Institute.
A Second Chance for All: Urging the Trump-Vance Administration to Champion Clean Slate
We’re calling on the Trump-Vance administration to prioritize federal Clean Slate legislation within their first 100 days in office by passing Federal Clean Slate legislation, launching federal record clearing programs, and raising awareness about Clean Slate. Learn more in this update from Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director.
Support Clean Slate
Your voice and action matter. Share your story to amplify the importance of second chances, or make a donation to help expand access to automated record sealing and opportunity for millions.
