A new push is underway to eliminate federal barriers that prevent millions of Americans from securing stable jobs and economic opportunities. Advocates argue that outdated criminal record policies unfairly limit employment prospects, perpetuating cycles of poverty. Two proposed laws—the Clean Slate Act and the Fresh Start Act—aim to automate record expungement and reduce discrimination in hiring. Lawmakers are being urged to act as part of broader efforts to reform justice and opportunity gaps.
The author urges Congress to pass the bipartisan Clean Slate Act and the Fresh Start Act to remove federal record barriers that hinder employment and economic stability for many Americans.
