HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio)—As the legislative session nears its end in less than a month, numerous organizations, advocacy groups and lawmakers are calling on the Connecticut General Assembly to pass the Clean Slate bill.
On the Capitol steps in Hartford Thursday, various groups showed support for the passage of Clean Slate legislation, including the ACLU of Connecticut, Congregations Organized for a New Connecticut (CONECT), the Greater Hartford Interfaith Action Alliance (GHIAA) and many more.
CONECT Co-Chair and Mt. Aery Baptist Church Lead Pastor Anthony Bennett said over the past few years, advocates have joined together, "pushing for the broadest and most inclusive Clean Slate bill to be passed this session."
If passed, the bill would automatically clear a person's criminal record for most misdemeanors and some felony offenses after at least seven conviction-free years.
According to Bennett and other supporters, the bill should include felony records in order for it to be as inclusive as possible. In the past, CONECT has proposed a clean sweep after three years for misdemeanors and five years for non-violent felonies.
Proponents say the bill is an opportunity for previously-convicted people to settle into life after prison with employment, permanent housing and education.
Among those present were Connecticut lawmakers, including Speaker of the House Matt Ritter. Ritter agreed and said a mistake should not lead to a lifetime of punishment.
"For some folks who made a mistake at 18 or 19 years old, we cannot punish them forever. It's not the American way. It's just not," Ritter said.
Allowing low-level criminals a chance to reintegrate into society by expunging their criminal records will help communities statewide and the state's economy, Ritter said.
With the State Legislature set to adjourn on June 9, advocates are urging lawmakers to pass it before the session ends.
Ritter assured those who stood on the Capitol Steps Thursday that he's confident the Judiciary Committee will have a bill that will pass before the end of the legislative session.