Updates from CSI
Check out the latest updates about Clean Slate, partner efforts, recent events, and more.

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.

New Research: Engaging Directly Impacted Populations in Research Online
When using digital tools to find participants, how can researchers be sure they’re reaching the right people, and doing so in a way that’s cost-effective, efficient, and ethical? New research dives in. Learn more in this co-authored update from Dr. Laura Chavez, Sarah Lageson, Carolina R. Caliman, Elsa Chen, and Ericka Adams.

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.

Raising the Bar on Work Should Also Mean Clearing the Path to It
If we’re going to require that people have jobs in order to access basic healthcare, we must also remove unnecessary obstacles standing in the way of those jobs. Learn more in this update from Dr. Sheena Meade, CEO.

Clearing the Path Forward: How Clean Slate Can Help LGBTQ+ Communities Move Beyond Barriers
Old arrest and conviction records often create barriers for LGBTQ+ individuals, amplifying the impacts of existing discrimination and systemic bias. Learn more in this update from Morgan Kelly, Senior Marketing & Communications Strategist.

Years in the Making, One Vote Away: Clean Slate Illinois Inches Closer to Victory
At the end of May, Illinois lawmakers came incredibly close to passing a historic Clean Slate bill. While the bill didn’t quite make it across the finish line before the spring session adjourned, it didn’t fail. In fact, it now stands just one vote away from heading to the Governor’s desk. Learn more in this update from Caitlin Dunklee, Campaign Strategist.

Reflecting on the Power of Community: CSI’s 2025 Convening in Chicago
On June 4–6, 2025, CSI brought together more than 300 advocates, organizers, directly impacted leaders, and other Clean Slate stakeholders from across the country for our 2025 Convening. Learn more in this update from Alex Williams, Chief of Staff.
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Maryland Takes a Stand for Second Chances with Passage of the Expungement Reform Act of 2025
In a bold and compassionate move, Maryland lawmakers have passed the Expungement Reform Act of 2025 (SB 432), marking a turning point in the fight for a fairer legal system and a stronger economy. Learn more in this update from Ryan Ewing, CSI, and Heather Warnken, University of Baltimore School of Law’s Center for Criminal Justice Reform.

Celebrating Five Years of The Clean Slate Initiative: From Moment to Momentum
Today, as we mark CSI’s five-year anniversary, it’s clear how far we’ve come — and we’re determined to keep that momentum growing. Learn more in this update from Dr. Sheena Meade, CEO.