From Legislation to Action: How CSI Supports Clean Slate Implementation

Passing Clean Slate legislation is a victory — but making sure it works as intended is just as important. That’s why The Clean Slate Initiative (CSI) partners with states to support implementation. 

For Clean Slate to change lives, the policies must be implemented effectively so that people with eligible records actually receive the relief the law promises. Together, we ensure that laws deliver on their promise of opportunity by helping partners, governments, and stakeholders put Clean Slate into practice.

What Is Clean Slate Implementation?

Clean Slate implementation means putting the law into action so that record-sealing happens through an automated process. Successful implementation has three key parts:

1. Automated Sealing: Eligible records are sealed through automated, government-initiated processes.
2. Barrier Removal: Sealed records no longer appear on background checks, creating access to jobs, housing, and education.‍
3. Notification & Awareness: People know their records are sealed and what that means for their future.

Why Implementation Matters

Across the 12 states and Washington D.C. that have passed Clean Slate, more than 16 million people are on the path to having their old records fully or partially sealed. That includes:

• More than 6.2 million records in California;
• More than 3 million records in New York;
• More than 1 million records in Pennsylvania;
• More than 912,000 records in Michigan;
• More than 260,000 records in Utah; and many more.

But without strong implementation, these opportunities risk remaining out of reach. CSI brings the expertise, partnerships, and technical assistance needed to make sure that record sealing becomes a reality — not just a promise.

How CSI Supports Implementation

We work at every level to make Clean Slate a success:

• We offer grants, training, consultation, a peer learning community, and guidance on outreach and publication for partners.
• We offer technical assistance, best practice guidance, systems support and strategy, and research and data to help inform decision-making for government agencies and legislators.
• We work with national partners like Code for America and SEARCH to expand the level of support available for implementation states.

Our Commitment

Implementation is where Clean Slate becomes real. At CSI, we are committed to helping states deliver meaningful, lasting change that restores opportunity and strengthens trust in government solutions. Learn more and stay up to date on our implementation page.