NYS Clean Slate Act

A New York State Law (Clean Slate Act) wipes Criminal Records Clean for millions of People in New York.

Starting today, State Criminal Records will be Automatically Sealed, under certain Background Checks for almost 2.5 million New Yorkers. The New Law states Misdemeanors get Sealed Three Years after Sentencing or Release, and Felonies after Eight years.

Any Cases with ongoing Criminal Charges, Probation, or Parole, would Not be Eligible. Sex Crimes, Murder, and other serious Non-Drug related Felonies will remain Public, and the Law does Not apply to Federal Crimes or Convictions in other States.

Under the New Law, Police Investigations, Legal Proceedings, and Employers in Sensitive Industries or Fields, can still Access Sealed Records.

In a Statement Saturday, Govenor Hochul (D) said in part, "Starting today, individuals who have paid their debt to society, stayed out of the criminal justice system and are looking for a fresh start will begin to benefit from this landmark legislation."

Supporters say it will fill Jobs and help the Economy, but Not everybody thinks it's a good idea. "There has to be redemption" Officials say it will Open Doors for Employment Opportunities.

"Of sealing conviction records for individuals who have served their time, paid their dues, remained out of trouble and who want to be a part of our local economy," said State Sen. Zellnor Myrie (D-20th District).

Opponents call the New Law "Dangerous". This was Not an easy Win for Supporters, who have been Fighting to Pass the Law since 2019.

Gov. Hochul Signed the Legislation last November, to go into Affect this year, but still there are plenty of Opposing Views.

"The reason why this law is dangerous is because it makes it automatic for everyone, whether they want to change their lives or they don't," said Assemblymember Michael Tannousis (R-64th District). Tannousis says instead, Records should be Sealed on a Case by Case basis.

State Sen. Cordell Cleare (D-30th District) held a Clinic at City College on Saturday, to provide Legal Assistance to Dozens of New Yorkers.

"This is so helpful to so many people. Success after prison is real, you know, we just need the opportunity to do it," Brooklyn Resident Shameeka France said.

"Now that I got help, I know that things will look up and be better because these people here really, really put their foot forward to make sure that you get the assistance that you need if you're willing to change and do better," Troy Douglas said.










NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote! Michael H. Drucker