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Maine Lawmakers Consider Bill To Seal Criminal Records 5-10 Years After Date of Conviction
Maine legislators are considering a bill that would allow people to have most of their past conviction records sealed 5 to 10 years after the date of conviction, with the goal of reducing lasting barriers to work, housing and community engagement for people who have completed their sentences. Supporters, including individuals sharing personal experiences, say old records can unfairly limit opportunities and that sealing them after a set period encourages reintegration. Opponents argue that some records are important for schools, employers and licensing boards to review for public safety and transparency. Lawmakers are debating how broadly to apply the proposal, including which types of convictions should be eligible.
Advocates Rally in Annapolis to Push Expungement Legislation
Advocates gathered at the Maryland State House in Annapolis to urge lawmakers to support the Fair Chance Housing Act and the Clean Slate Act, bills aimed at reducing barriers to stable housing, work, and community reintegration for people with past justice involvement. The Fair Chance Housing Act would limit how background checks are used in rental decisions, making it easier for people to secure housing. Under the Clean Slate Act, eligible records would be automatically sealed once they qualify, easing administrative and financial burdens that often hinder access to opportunities. Rally speakers shared personal experiences of housing and employment barriers and emphasized that these reforms support healthier, more stable communities.
Mondays in Annapolis: Lobbyists, Citizens Come From Across the State to Push Policy Initiatives
Advocates and citizens from across Maryland gather in Annapolis on Mondays to speak with lawmakers and advance diverse public policy priorities during the legislative session.
Maryland Rally Will Highlight Need for Clean Slate & Fair Chance Housing
Advocates and directly impacted individuals in Maryland call for reducing barriers for people with past arrest and conviction records.
