Louisiana Senate Bill SB97

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Refer: 4/8/19

Caption

Provides for "clean slate" limited access to a person's criminal history record relative to certain misdemeanors. (1/1/20)

Impact

The bill is set to substantially alter how criminal history information is handled within the state of Louisiana. By establishing a 'Clean Slate Criminal Record Registry,' it mandates that certain information related to convictions and arrests become less accessible to noncriminal justice agencies after specified time periods, effectively offering a 'fresh start' for individuals who have remained crime-free. The intent behind this legislation is rooted in the belief that people deserve a chance to rebuild their lives without the persistent stigma of a criminal record, particularly for crimes deemed non-violent or minor.

Summary

Senate Bill 97, known as the 'Louisiana Clean Slate Law,' aims to provide limited access to certain criminal history records for individuals who have demonstrated rehabilitation. Specifically, it allows for the redaction of specific misdemeanor convictions and arrest records after a period of being crime-free. This legislation seeks to alleviate the long-term impacts of a criminal record on a person's ability to secure employment, housing, and other critical opportunities necessary for reintegration into society, thus supporting the broader goals of rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 97 is largely positive among those advocating for criminal justice reform and the rights of former offenders. Proponents emphasize the importance of rehabilitation and the need to support individuals seeking to move on from their pasts. However, there are concerns among some law enforcement and public safety advocates about the implications of limiting access to criminal history records, particularly regarding employment decisions in sensitive fields where a criminal background check may be essential.

Contention

Key points of contention revolve around the balance between granting individuals a clean slate and ensuring public safety. Critics argue that while the intent to help reintegrate former offenders is commendable, there may be risks associated with restricting access to certain criminal records, especially in situations where employers have a legitimate need to be informed about an employee's background. Additionally, there is debate over whether certain offenses should qualify for this limited access, potentially leading to differing opinions on which crimes warrant inclusion in the 'clean slate' provisions.