Daily American: Pennsylvania Clean Slate Act update heading to governor's desk
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“The advent of COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on our economy, particularly amongst those employed in service and hospitality industries,” said Jenna Bottler, deputy director of Justice Action Network. “We must do everything in our power to ensure that bureaucracy and red tape do not stand in the way of access to employment. House Bill 440 is an important step towards that goal, prioritizing both public safety and increased opportunities for employment and economic prosperity.”
HB 440 also clarifies that records can be sealed after an individual pays restitution. Underlying court fees associated with the conviction do not bar a case from being sealed, Bottler said, potentially opening up the process to “tens of thousands” of residents.
“I was taken aback to see this huge bipartisan support … especially in this year of pandemic and upheavals and really crazy things happening at the national level,” she said. “To see legislators come across the aisle to work together on this is really heartwarming.”