In a significant move toward criminal justice reform, Governor Josh Shapiro signed Clean Slate 3.0 into law on December 14, 2023. This legislation marks a progressive step forward in providing individuals with past convictions, particularly those related to non-violent drug offenses and property crimes, with a pathway to rehabilitation and a fresh start.
Under Clean Slate 3.0, individuals with less serious drug felonies will now have the opportunity to have their records sealed by automation after a period of 10 years without any subsequent misdemeanor or felony convictions. Additionally, individuals convicted of certain property-related felonies, such as theft, will be eligible for record sealing after a decade, contingent upon the granting of a court petition. This legislation also aims to reduce the waiting periods for sealing misdemeanor and summary convictions, with the waiting periods shortened to 7 years and 5 years respectively.
Qualifying felonies for record sealing under Clean Slate 3.0 include:
- Criminal Mischief (Section 3304)
- Criminal Trespass (Section 3503)
- Theft and related offenses (Chapter 39)
- Forgery and fraudulent practices (Chapter 41)
- Offenses under Section 13 of the Controlled Substance, Drug Device, and Cosmetic Act, except those carrying a minimum sentence of 30 months or more imprisonment or a maximum sentence of 60 months or more of imprisonment.
This expansion of Clean Slate legislation not only provides individuals with a chance to move forward from past mistakes but also recognizes the importance of rehabilitation and reintegration into society. By automating the process for certain offenses and reducing waiting periods for others, Clean Slate 3.0 aims to remove barriers to employment, housing, and education faced by individuals with criminal records, fostering opportunities for economic stability and personal growth.
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