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Proposed Legislation

Wisconsin legislators are developing a bipartisan bill to update the state’s expungement laws. Proponents believe it could help thousands of people find employment opportunities. Individuals with criminal histories often have difficulty when trying to find jobs, housing and other necessities.

The proposed bill creates expungement opportunities for nonviolent and “low level” crimes. It also removes age restrictions to make expunction available to a larger group of people. To be eligible, individuals must have served their time and not been arrested again. If the bill is signed into law, residents will be granted one opportunity to ask for applicable records to be sealed. Each request would be reviewed by a judge and then approved or denied.

This bill includes protections for employers. Specifically, it would help prevent negligible hiring lawsuits for organizations that bring on someone who had a criminal record expunged. Once a record is sealed, it is no longer publicly available. Such documents cannot be considered when an organization makes employment, housing or other decisions about consumers.

Clean Slate Milwaukee

A group called Clean Slate Milwaukee is a major proponent of this proposed legislation. Shanyeill McCloud, the founder, commented: “If a person cannot find jobs even though they are qualified, it plays on their mental health. That negatively affects the role that person is able to play in their household and their relationship with their family.”

Clean Slate Milwaukee was founded in 2012 to assist young adults who have misdemeanor or nonviolent felony convictions expunge their records. They describe the organization as a “Re-entry Resources Hub” that helps “reduce joblessness and homelessness, crime, and recidivism in the city of Milwaukee.”

Support

Lawmakers from both parties are working together to develop this bill. Representative Evan Goyke spoke about their shared effort: “This proposal will provide immediate employment access for thousands of individuals who are looking to overcome their past and find success in the workforce.”

Other groups in the state are working with legislators to help make this a reality. Notable organizations include Americans for Prosperity, The Waukesha County Business Alliance and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (NMAC).

Supporters believe the bill would be beneficial to the community. It is expected to bolster the economy, create more hiring options for employers and prevent people from re-offending. McCloud noted: “We’re hurting our economic base because it’s one less taxpayer, and we’re hurting our families because it’s one less contributor.”

Background Checks Remain Essential

Whether or not the bill becomes law, employers in Wisconsin and throughout the nation remain encouraged to run comprehensive background checks during the hiring process. Background reports show organizations if a candidate has serious convictions that might indicate they pose a risk to the business or public. Running them demonstrates an employer is doing their due diligence and endeavoring to create safe workplaces.

If you are hiring, please contact us. Our experienced team can help you customize background screening packages for any position. We are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.