Updates from CSI

At CSI, we believe in second chances — and that belief resonates across the political spectrum. Our latest research brief, Bipartisan Support for Clean Slate Laws, offers compelling data on the widespread support for automatic record sealing among people who have received a Clean Slate. Learn more in this update from Dr. Laura Chavez, Director of Research & Data.

Record relief is making headlines across the country as discussions around second chances take center stage. With terms like pardon, clemency, expungement, and Clean Slate frequently appearing in the media, it’s more important than ever to understand the key differences between them. Learn more in this update from Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director.

Republican lawmakers have a unique opportunity in 2025: They can build the momentum of Clean Slate by championing the legislation at the state and federal levels, and play a leading role in unlocking opportunities for millions of Americans, boosting our economy, and making our communities safer. Learn more in this contributed update from Jason Pye, Vice President at Due Process Institute.

Code for America’s Advocates Guide focuses on ensuring that Clean Slate policies are set up for success by keeping in mind the key needs for implementation from the start of the policy planning process. Learn more in this contributed update from Candice Millsap, Senior Program Manager, Clear My Record at Code for America.

We’re calling on the Trump-Vance administration to prioritize federal Clean Slate legislation within their first 100 days in office by passing Federal Clean Slate legislation, launching federal record clearing programs, and raising awareness about Clean Slate. Learn more in this update from Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director.

On January 1, 2025, Minnesota opened the door to brighter futures for an estimated 500,000 Minnesotans with the implementation of its Clean Slate law. Learn more in this update from Caitlin Dunklee, Campaign Strategist.

CSI supported partners’ work in over fifteen states in 2024. These efforts are building momentum and paving the way for even greater successes ahead. Learn more in this update from Erik Altieri, Director of Campaigns.

How can we bring conversations about Clean Slate to life in a way that resonates with family and friends? It’s all about connection and shared values. Learn more in this update from Morgan Kelly, Senior Marketing & Communications Strategist.

Clean Slate laws embody hope and second chances, and CSI’s Storyteller Series includes stories of people who have received a Clean Slate. Learn more in this update from Stacey Ferguson, VP of Marketing & Communications.

Forgiveness and generosity aren’t just Thanksgiving principles. For many people, they’re core values — that’s one of the reasons support for Clean Slate has gained so much momentum: People believe in the power of redemption. Learn more in this update from Sheena Meade, CEO. Learn more in this update from Sheena Meade, CEO.

As part of our “Changing the Narrative” campaign, we produced a Clean Slate Public Service Announcement, titled “For The Record,” that illustrates one of the core principles of our work: “People should not be defined by their records.” Learn more in this update from Stacey Ferguson, VP of Marketing & Communications.

November 16 marked the one-year anniversary of NY Governor Hochul signing the state’s Clean Slate Act, which is among the nation’s most expansive and inclusive legislation to seal old conviction records. What does that mean, and what comes next? Learn more in this update from Clean Slate New York partners at the Center for Community Alternatives.