A local lawmaker is trying to help advance a bill that would automatically expunge the criminal record of some people. Having a criminal record can hinder people in different areas, for example, applying for work. However, it can be a good thing to have on file for things such as tenant screenings that landlords can administer by going here so they know who is applying for their property, but, for those who are doing everything to turn their lives around it can stop them in their tracks and not let them move on.
Republican State Representative Tedd Nesbit- which represents a portion of Butler County- was in attendance at a news conference Wednesday about House Bill 440, which would provide an opportunity to expunge a person’s record if they have been unconditionally pardoned, or fully acquitted, of all charges.
“There are women and men who have served their time for a minor offense, yet they are still being punished while no longer being incarcerated. Their criminal record is a blemish that is prohibiting them from obtaining employment, purchasing a home and walking into a brighter future for themselves and their families,” said State Rep. Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia/Delaware).
McClinton and Nesbit (R-Butler/Mercer) were joined by advocates, legal experts and fellow colleagues to urge the General Assembly to pass their bipartisan legislation that would automatically expunge some people’s criminal record.
“It’s plain and simple: individuals that are fully acquitted or pardoned of crimes should not have to be forced to carry the burdens and stigma that are associated with a criminal record,” said Nesbit. “That’s what this bill seeks to do-improve our expungement laws and remove barriers to employment for the people of the commonwealth. I am excited to work with Representative McClinton and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this important issue.â