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Majority of Marylanders Favor Clean Slate Act, Reducing Barriers to a Fresh Start for Those with Non-Violent Convictions
A January 2026 poll found that a majority of Maryland voters favor the Maryland Clean Slate Act (HB 360/SB 483), with 59 % in support, 29 % opposed, and 12 % undecided. The legislation would replace the current petition-based approach with an automated process to seal eligible records — making them less likely to appear in background checks used by employers, landlords, and others. Support cut across party and demographic lines, with particularly strong backing among Black voters, and advocates say the change could help hundreds of thousands of people access work, housing, and educational opportunities. Opponents offer less detailed commentary in the article, while supporters highlight that streamlined sealing can improve community stability and equity.
Majority of Marylanders Favor Clean Slate Act, Reducing Barriers to a Fresh Start for Those with Non-Violent Convictions
New polling shows most Maryland voters support the Maryland Clean Slate Act, which would use an automated process to seal eligible records and reduce barriers to jobs, housing, and stability.
Maine’s Clean Slate Act Would Promote Fairness and Preserve Public Safety
Maine’s Clean Slate Act would modernize record sealing with an automated process that expands opportunities, protects public safety, and supports people moving forward after past involvement with the justice system.
'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.
