Yesterday Columbus played host to a rally supporting legislation to make it possible for some repeat offenders in Ohio to have their criminal records sealed after seven years without committing another crime. Although seemingly controversial at first glance, the proposed law is evenhanded and focuses on reintegrating into society those ex-convicts who have displayed a sincere willingness to reform their lives. Because it will likely enhance the state's justice system rather than undermine it, as well as reward those who toe the line, the bill should pass.
The purpose of House Bill 317 is to create new opportunities for ex-convicts who sincerely regret their crimes. The bill is by no means intended to soften the state's stance on crime, and to view it as such would be a misinterpretation of the stern but forgiving philosophy that underlies the bill. Most importantly, those convicted of murder, sex crimes or kidnapping still will have their offenses permanently etched on their criminal record, and justifiably so. Such criminals have committed too grievous of offenses to have their records cleared. The bill, on the other hand, is intended only for lower-level felons and those convicted of misdemeanors. Candidates for record sealing must display seven years' worth of model behavior before they can be considered. Furthermore, judges must approve all sealed records, so there is always an extra level of protection.
The bill has garnered support from judges, clergy, lawyers and leaders for good reason. Former criminals, some of whom might have committed their crimes as far back as a decade ago, frequently face reluctance from employers, credit agencies, banks and schools based on their past transgressions. The result is the loss of potentially productive citizens who could contribute to the workforce and society. Under Ohio laws, people with more than one misdemeanor or felony can never get their records expunged. This should change, not for the sake of unwarranted forgiveness for all criminals, but to give a second chance only to those who have earned it. Because the proposed legislation strives for the latter, it deserves popular support.
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Bill appropriate for low-level offenders
