California Approves Sweeping Criminal Justice Reform Measure

California became the first state to automatically seal records for people with previous arrests and convictions after passing one of the most comprehensive criminal justice reform laws in the nation.

Advocates for the measure claim that it will revolutionize how individuals obtain homes and work. Something that is challenging if you have a criminal history.

The law, according to those opposed to it, has to be strengthened to ensure that parolees and ex-felons are properly reintegrating into society. Students in Sacramento who would gain from the new law are crowded into one classroom.

There is also Brendon Byfield, a parent of three children and a participant in Northern California Construction Training. A nine-year-old kid began tormenting his daughter when she was one and eventually trip-tripped her.

A member of Northern California Construction Training, Bryan Sanchez has committed more home invasion robberies than he can recall.

Everyone involved in Northern California Construction Training (NCCT) is striving to improve their lives and the lives of others, even if that means violating the law or learning how to construct birdhouses and park benches.

For people who serve out their sentences and don’t commit another crime for four years, California recently approved legislation that will automatically seal the majority of criminal records. Also, arrests and records that don’t result in convictions will be sealed.

READ ALSO: Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales Censured Over Same-Sex Marriage, Guns, Border Issues

New California Law Exceptions

There are legal exclusions, serious and violent offenses will not be expunged from the records of those convicted. Also, sexual offenders won’t. Any applicant for a job in education, police enforcement, or government will still be able to see their record.

The bill’s sponsor, state senator Mara Elena Durazo, claims that millions of Californians may now be able to realize their full employment and economic potential as a result of the law.

Although several jurisdictions already have some form of automatic record-clearing system in place, experts say that California is likely the first state to pass such a law because it would likely apply to the majority of ex-felons.

There are exceptions to the rule, those convicted of major violent felonies won’t have their records automatically sealed. However, the law does allow people with significant violent felonies to petition to have their records hidden.

READ ALSO: Protesters Gather in Austin, Urge Gov. Greg Abbott to End ‘Operation Lone Star’