A bipartisan group of state lawmakers is backing new
proposals to give a person's low-level criminal offenses a limited shelf life
in Pennsylvania, reported WHYY.
Plans in the House and Senate would automatically seal
low-level criminal records in Pennsylvania after an individual has had no
criminal activity for five to 10 years. The legislation builds on a plan
enacted into law this year to let people with minor offenses ask a judge to
seal their criminal records.
"This is taking it one step further," said Rep.
Patty Kim, D-Dauphin. "I think Pennsylvania is finally realizing the
barriers that people have. This is not an urban issue, a rural issue, or a
suburban issue. This is a real person issue, and it's really hindering people
from moving forward."
A criminal record can be a barrier in going to college,
finding housing, or landing a job. Having a low-level offense in your past
shouldn't be a deal-breaker, said Sen. Anthony Williams, D-Philadelphia.
"I was handicapped as an executive at PepsiCo in terms
of who I could hire even though I managed people who really just drove
trucks," said Williams. "And, as a state senator, I've hired people
with records, and there's not been one person I've hired with a record that has
not worked out to serve the commonwealth effectively."
Under this "clean slate" bill, nonviolent
misdemeanors would be obscured from public view automatically after the
individual is crime-free for 10 years, and summary offenses would be hidden
after five years without criminal activity. Law enforcement officials would
still have access to full criminal records.
To read more CLICK HERE
No comments:
Post a Comment