Grasse-Backed ‘Clean Slate’ Bill Signed into Law, Expanding Career and Housing Opportunities

CHICAGO – State Rep. Nicolle Grasse, D-Arlington Heights, delivered transformational “clean slate” justice reforms, to expand opportunities for employment, housing and education by creating an automatic sealing process for thousands of non-violent arrest records.

“One mistake shouldn’t haunt someone for the rest of their lives,” Grasse said. “Sensible criminal justice reforms like this ensure that more people can live successful, independent lives and become part of their communities.”

More than 2.2 million Illinoisans have an old arrest record or minor conviction that would currently qualify for sealing, but that process can be complicated and costly. It’s estimated that only 10% of those eligible have been able to receive relief, making it more difficult for many to qualify for affordable housing, advance their education or find employment.

Grasse recently worked to pass the Clean Slate Act (House Bill 1836), which will automatically seal many minor criminal records, ensuring these records are accessible only to law enforcement, prosecutors and sensitive employers, such as daycares and schools.

Arrests resulting in an acquittal or dismissal will be sealed immediately, while misdemeanor convictions will be sealed after two years. The most serious felonies, such as domestic abuse convictions and other violent crimes, will not be eligible for sealing.

The measure is the product of years of negotiation with business groups, law enforcement, housing advocates and criminal justice reformers.