California State Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Seal Misdemeanor Convictions

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California Assembly Member Phil Ting

A California state lawmaker is proposing a legislation that would automatically seal millions of criminal convictions and records, eliminating the barriers for certain low-level offenders to re-enter the community successfully.

Last week, Assembly member Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) introduced AB 1076, which requires the California Department of Justice to use technology to clear misdemeanor convictions and records of low-level offenders who already served their sentences.

The records clearance only applies to those entitled to it under the state’s existing laws. It does not apply to people who committed serious crimes such as murder.

The legislation will allow low-level offenders the chance to get jobs, housing, and education and make their lives better.

A “second chance” for low-level offenders

In a statement, Ting said, “Everybody deserves a second chance.  We must open doors for those facing housing and employment barriers and use available technology to clear arrest and criminal records for individuals already eligible for relief.  There is a great cost to our economy and society when we shut out job-seeking workers looking for a better future.”