Two Ohio Republican lawmakers are pushing for legislation that aims to simplify the process of sealing criminal records in order to enhance workforce participation within the state.
The plan, known as the Getting Rehabilitated Ohioans Working or Grow Act, has been touted by sponsors as having the potential to not only reduce revictimization but also foster safer and healthier communities and families.
“We believe in holding Ohioans accountable for their actions while also providing them with the necessary resources and support to redeem themselves and thrive,” expressed Rep. Brett Hillyer, R-Uhrichsville. “The Grow Act presents an opportunity for rehabilitated individuals in Ohio to have a second chance at success within our state.”
The proposed legislation aims to establish specific conditions for sealing records once individuals have successfully rehabilitated and maintained a crime-free lifestyle for a certain period. It also ensures that prosecutors have a say in the process of record sealing.
Supporters argue that sealing a criminal record can have multiple benefits. One of the key advantages is that it opens up employment opportunities for individuals with past convictions. By sealing their records, these individuals can have a fair chance at securing jobs without facing discrimination solely based on their criminal history. This not only helps them reintegrate into society but also contributes to reducing recidivism rates.
Another advantage of sealing records is that it protects employers from potential penalties for hiring rehabilitated individuals. Many employers are hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record due to the fear of legal consequences. By sealing the records, employers can be assured that they are not at risk of facing any legal repercussions for giving a second chance to someone who has turned their life around.
In summary, the proponents of record sealing emphasize the positive impact it can have on both the individuals seeking employment and the employers who are willing to give them a chance. By opening up job opportunities and mitigating legal risks, record sealing plays a crucial role in promoting rehabilitation and reducing societal stigma associated with past criminal convictions.
The Conservative Political Action Conference, The Buckeye Institute, and the TAP Foundation all praised the proposal.
According to David Safavian, CPAC senior vice president and general counsel, the Ohio Grow Act presents a valuable opportunity for legislators in Columbus to showcase their commitment to strong and conservative policies that will facilitate the reintegration of Ohioans into the workforce. Safavian emphasizes the detrimental impact of a prior criminal record on individuals who have already turned their lives around, as it hinders their access to meaningful employment, secure housing, and financial stability. He further highlights that individuals who have successfully avoided criminal activities for a period of five years are highly unlikely to engage in criminal behavior again.
The Buckeye Institute, a policy group based in Columbus, has been advocating for several years to create pathways that make it more convenient for convicts to reintegrate into the state’s workforce.
“The Buckeye Institute, with its longstanding commitment to advocating for sensible and intelligent criminal justice policies in Ohio, believes in striking a balance between ensuring public safety and providing opportunities for individuals who have fulfilled their societal obligations,” emphasized Robert Alt, the President and CEO of The Buckeye Institute. He further added, “The Grow Act represents a crucial stride towards empowering rehabilitated Ohioans to regain their self-worth, and more importantly, reintegrate into the workforce, which serves as a powerful deterrent against relapse. This reform is not only beneficial for the individuals, but also contributes to the overall improvement of Ohio’s economy, considering the abundance of job opportunities in the state.”
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