Updates from CSI

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Clean Slate policies offer clear and compelling benefits to public safety and law enforcement. Learn more in this guest update from Jill Snider, R Street.

Join us in Chicago June 5-6, 2025, for two days of connection, strategy, and action as we mark five years of progress at CSI and prepare for a lifetime of impact for Clean Slate’s work. Register today!

At a powerful press conference in Washington, D.C. on April 30, bipartisan lawmakers, advocates, stakeholders, and directly impacted individuals celebrated the reintroduction of the Clean Slate Act and Fresh Start Act. Learn more in this update from Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director.

CSI hosted a community call for Clean Slate Champions during Second Chance Month, and it wasn’t just an event — it was a reminder of what’s possible when directly impacted voices are centered, innovation is embraced, and policymakers lead with courage and compassion. Learn more in this update from Dr. Sheena Meade, CEO.

People of faith have long believed in redemption, renewal, and the sacred dignity of every human being. That's why faith communities in Illinois support Clean Slate. Learn more in this guest update from Rev. Ciera Bates-Chamberlain.

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Too often, media coverage, blog posts, and social media posts about legal system reform are accompanied by harmful, stereotypical imagery, reducing people to the moment of their worst mistake. We have a responsibility to make sure we're not silently reinforcing those stereotypes in our storytelling. Learn more in this update from Morgan Kelly, Senior Marketing & Communications Strategist.

During National Public Health Week 2025, CSI joined two critical conversations to explore how arrest and conviction records affect public health. Learn more in this update from Stacey Ferguson, VP of Marketing & Communications.

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