The proposed Clean Slate Act aims to facilitate the reintegration of individuals convicted of nonviolent or less violent crimes by allowing them to have their criminal records cleared after demonstrating rehabilitation. Under this Act, individuals who have completed their sentences and maintained a crime-free status for a designated period can automatically qualify for relief, thereby reducing barriers to employment, housing, and education. The bill includes provisions that define qualified offenses, establish eligibility criteria, and outline the responsibilities of state agencies, such as the Department of Correctional Services and the State Court Administrator. Notably, the eligibility for clean slate relief is set to commence on January 1, 2026, with specific timeframes for different classes of misdemeanors, while serious offenses like sexual crimes and violent felonies are excluded from eligibility.

Additionally, the Clean Slate Act introduces a second chance relief program for individuals serving long-term or life sentences who have shown evidence of rehabilitation. This program allows eligible offenders to apply for sentence commutation from the Board of Pardons after serving a specified number of years, which varies based on their age at the time of the offense. The Board of Parole will assess rehabilitation and make recommendations for commutation, ensuring that reentry plans are in place to support successful community reintegration. Throughout the process, the bill emphasizes the importance of public safety and community involvement, balancing the need for rehabilitation with the protection of the public.