Dauphin News

Two pieces of legislation aimed at giving second chances to deserving individuals and making important updates to Pennsylvania's probation and parole law have successfully passed the General Assembly, according to Rep. Sheryl M. Delozier (R-Cumberland).

One of the bills, House Bill 689, expands on the original Clean Slate legislation authored by Delozier and Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia). The bill includes the sealing of details in certain low-level, nonviolent felony drug crimes after 10 years without recidivism. This expansion of the Clean Slate law aims to provide opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives.

The second bill, Senate Bill 838, focuses on promoting fairness and limiting excessive incarceration. It establishes a mandatory probation review conference to consider an individual's educational, employment, or other goals. However, this conference may be waived on a case-by-case basis when all stakeholders agree it is unnecessary. By implementing this review conference, the bill seeks to ensure that probation terms are fair and reasonable.

"I am encouraged to see both our House Bill 689 and Senate Bill 838 advance to the governor's desk," said Delozier. "These are prime examples of strong criminal justice reform bills that would build upon and improve smart public policy."

Delozier has been a long-time advocate for criminal justice reform and believes that these bills will bring about positive social, economic, and personal change in communities across Pennsylvania. She hopes that the governor recognizes the years of effort put into achieving this legislative goal and acts quickly to sign the bills into law.

The Clean Slate legislation, originally sponsored by Delozier and Harris, has already had a significant impact. Since its passage in 2018, nine other states have adopted similar laws. In Pennsylvania alone, over 1.2 million individuals have received a second chance through the Clean Slate Law, with eligible cases being sealed.

Both House Bill 689 and Senate Bill 838 have received broad bipartisan and bicameral support. Importantly, no stakeholder groups have voiced opposition to the expansion of the Clean Slate law.

These bills represent a significant step forward in criminal justice reform, providing second chances and promoting fairness. Individuals who have shown they deserve a pathway out of the criminal justice system will have the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.

For any questions about these bills or other state-related issues, individuals can reach out to Delozier's office directly.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.repdelozier.com/News/33294/Latest-News/Delozier-Clean-Slate,-Probation-and-Parole-Bills-Pass-in-the-General-Assembly