The Clean Slate Act of 2025 would automatically seal certain federal criminal records and allow individuals to petition courts to seal records of other nonviolent convictions. Records would be automatically sealed for arrests that don't result in conviction, acquittals, marijuana offenses, and nonviolent federal crimes once sentences are completed (typically within one year), while individuals convicted of covered nonviolent offenses could request record sealing one year after finishing their sentence if they have no more than two prior nonviolent felonies. Once sealed, records are hidden from background checks and most public access, though law enforcement and courts retain access for investigations and specific employment screenings. The bill requires courts to hold hearings within 180 days, notify prosecutors and victims, and use free petition forms with fee waivers for those unable to pay, while also mandating annual public reports on petition outcomes broken down by race, ethnicity, and gender. The legislation, introduced by Representatives McBath and Moran in April 2025, aims to help individuals with criminal records reintegrate into society by removing employment barriers after they have demonstrated rehabilitation.
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