Overview
- Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the Clean Slate Act, with the statute slated to take effect on June 1.
- The measure directs officials to automate sealing of eligible nonviolent convictions and cleared charges, with sealing required by 2029.
- Serious offenses are excluded from automatic sealing, including sexual violence, DUI, and crimes requiring sex‑offender registration.
- Published estimates of those eligible vary, with reports citing more than 1.7 million to nearly 2.2 million people.
- Supporters emphasize access to jobs, housing, and education, while critics warn sealed records will weaken background checks and raise safety concerns.