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Gov. JB Pritzker Signs Historic Clean Slate Legislation Into Law
Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the Clean Slate Act into law on January 16, 2026, marking a major milestone in expanding opportunities for millions of Illinois residents with past records. The new law streamlines and automates the process of sealing eligible records statewide, helping people overcome barriers to employment, housing, and education that linger long after they’ve completed their sentences. Advocates and organizers who spent years pushing for the legislation celebrated how it will empower individuals and strengthen communities by removing longstanding systemic obstacles. Implementation of the automated record sealing process is set to begin in 2029, with supporters noting the law’s potential to unlock economic opportunities and dignity for people across the state.
'Clean Slate' Law Helps Former Inmates Find Work While Boosting Illinois’ Economy
This piece highlights how Illinois’ Clean Slate Act helps people rebuild workforce participation and strengthens the state’s economy, alongside other reader opinions on politics and culture.
Advocates Cheer New Illinois Law That Seals Non-Violent Convictions 3 Years After Completing A Sentence
Illinois lawmakers have enacted a new Clean Slate law to automatically seal records for people with non-violent offenses three years after finishing their sentence, expanding access to jobs, housing, and loans beginning in 2029.
2 Million Illinois Residents Could Have Convictions For Nonviolent Crimes Automatically Sealed Under New Law
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed the Clean Slate Act, a bipartisan law to automate the sealing of eligible records for people who have completed their sentences for non-violent offenses, expanding access to employment, housing, and education by removing procedural barriers.
