FROM LEGISLATION TO POLICY

What is Clean Slate Implementation?

Clean Slate Implementation means putting Clean Slate laws into action after they are passed, so that people with eligible records actually get the relief the law promises.

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BREAKING IT DOWN

What Does Successful
Clean Slate Implementation Look Like?

Successful automated record sealing has three main components:

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1
Automated Sealing: Eligible records are sealed through automated, government-initiated processes.
2
Barrier Removal: Sealed records no longer appear on background checks, opening opportunity to access jobs, housing and education.
3
Notification & Awareness: Directly impacted people know their records are sealed and what that means for their lives.
GOOD IMPLEMENTATION = LIVES CHANGED

Why Our Implementation Support Matters

  • 12 states + D.C. have passed Clean Slate, putting over 16 million people on the path to a meaningful second chance.
  • Without strong implementation, laws risk falling short, leaving opportunity blocked.
  • CSI brings the expertise, partnerships, and support necessary to ensure policy success that change lives.
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Clean Slate Implementation States

In the states that have passed Clean Slate, over 16 million people are on a path to have their records fully or partially sealed.

California
6,240,000
Colorado
621,000
Connecticut
308,000
Delaware
84,000
Michigan
912,000
Minnesota
632,000
New Jersey
1,492,000
New York
3,060,000
Oklahoma
372,000
Pennsylvania
1,665,000
Utah
266,000
Virginia
523,000
Washington, D.C.
95,000

How CSI Supports Implementation

For State Partners
For Government Agencies & Legislators
With Our National Partners
Grants, training, and consultation for local advocates.

Peer learning community across implementation states.

Guidance on outreach and public education.
Technical assistance and best practices from across the country.

Support with background checks, data systems, and notification strategies.

Research and impact data to inform decision-making.
Code for America: Policy and technology expertise on government systems.

SEARCH: In-depth state research and a community of practice for implementing agencies.
PARTNERSHIPS PROPEL IMPLEMENTATION

What Stakeholders Can Expect from CSI

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Expertise: Customized technical and policy guidance.
Collaboration: Partnership with local leaders and national experts.
Accountability: Monitoring, troubleshooting, and defending progress.
Sustainability: A streamlined process that runs efficiently, designed for long-term success after initial setup and support.
BREAKING IT DOWN

Our Commitment

Implementation is where Clean Slate becomes real. 

CSI is committed to ensuring that Clean Slate laws deliver meaningful, lasting change that strengthens trust in government solutions and restores opportunity for millions who have earned a second chance.

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Let's Connect!

To learn more about Clean Slate Implementation, or partner with The Clean Slate Initiative on your state’s implementation efforts, reach out to implementation@cleanslateinitiative.org.

Implementation Updates

View all
July 15, 2025

Steps Ahead for Second Chances: How D.C.’s Clean Slate Law Is Shaping a Better Future

In 2022, thanks to the tireless efforts of local advocates like DC Justice Lab, D.C. passed a Clean Slate law, the Second Chance Amendment Act, that provides petition based and automated sealing of eligible arrest and conviction records. The law marks a critical turning point in the fight for second chances in The District. Learn more in this guest update from Nye Winslow, Policy Counsel at DC Justice Lab.

March 11, 2025

Making Second Chances a Reality: The Importance of Clean Slate Implementation

The Clean Slate Initiative works to pass Clean Slate laws around the country. But we know that passing these laws is just the beginning. Effective implementation is crucial for real change. Learn more in this update from Katie Svoboda-Kindle, Implementation Director.

January 9, 2025

Building Automatic Record Clearance Policies that Work: A New Guide from Code for America

Code for America’s Advocates Guide focuses on ensuring that Clean Slate policies are set up for success by keeping in mind the key needs for implementation from the start of the policy planning process. Learn more in this contributed update from Candice Millsap, Senior Program Manager, Clear My Record at Code for America.

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.

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