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No One Should Be Defined By Their Record
The Clean Slate Initiative is working across the country, and in Congress, to pass and implement laws that automate record sealing for people with eligible records who have completed their sentence and remained crime-free, and to expand who is eligible for sealing.
Our Mission
The Clean Slate Initiative passes and implements laws that automatically clear eligible records for people who have completed their sentence and remained crime-free, and expands who is eligible for clearance
Our Vision
People will no longer be defined by their records and will have the opportunity to contribute to their community, have a fair opportunity to work, get an education, and achieve their full potential.
Real Second Chances for Millions of People Across the Country
Over 16 million people in America are eligible for full or partial record sealing across 12 states, and Washington D.C., that have passed Clean Slate legislation that meets CSI's policy minimums.
All 50 States on the Clean Slate Path by 2029
We have a multi-year strategy to put all 50 states on the path to passing Clean Slate legislation. By 2029, we plan to pass and implement laws that provide partial and full record clearance for up to 14 million more people — restoring opportunity and dignity for many who have been left behind for far too long.
Updates from CSI
Breaking New Ground: Ohio State Journal of Criminal Law Spotlights Clean Slate Research
The Ohio State Journal of Criminal Law published a special Summer 2025 issue featuring several important academic articles on Clean Slate policies, including one by The Clean Slate Initiative (CSI) and two by researchers funded by CSI. Learn mor ein this update from Dr. Laura Chavez, Director of Research & Data.
New Research: How Clean Slate Won in Pennsylvania and Utah — and What Other States Can Learn
A new study recently published in Criminology and Public Policy examines how Pennsylvania and Utah became the first states to pass Clean Slate laws — and outlines lessons learned for other states. Learn more in this update from Dr. Laura Chavez, Elsa Chen, Sarah Lageson, and Ericka Adams.
Lessons from CSI’s 2025 Convening
Jerika White, Community Justice Manager at Empower Missouri, joined CSI's 2025 convening in Chicago in June as a first-time attendee. Learn more about her experience at the event in this guest update.
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.
