We’ve heard a lot about “government efficiency” over the past few months.
Whenever Donald Trump, Elon Musk, or any of their lackeys in Congress use it, they are using code words for cutting valuable programs that serve the public, as opposed to corporate profit.
But there is an actual meaning to the word. Here’s an example.
Our criminal record sealing system is stuck in the last century.
Individuals seeking to seal records need to mail or deliver petitions to the Commissioner of Probation who processes them manually, one-by-one. This creates backlogs, with several months passing before people hear back when they have already waited years for the opportunity.
Moreover, many people do not know when their records are eligible for sealing, and only learn they might be eligible for record sealing after they lose the prospect for a job, housing, or other opportunity due to their record.
Record sealing has well-documented benefits, but these benefits in economic opportunity are only possible if people can get their records sealed.
That’s why we’re a strong supporter of Clean Slate legislation that would create an automated record sealing process. Automating record sealing means fewer bureaucratic obstacles and more opportunity. It’s a win-win.
We testified at the State House on Tuesday in support of the Clean Slate bill. Can you write to your legislator today too?
