New Zealand's initiative to hide minor criminal records after seven years failed to boost employment, study shows.

New Zealand's Clean Slate initiative, meant to boost employment for those with minor criminal convictions, has had little effect. Introduced in 2004, the law conceals criminal records after seven years of conviction-free living, but research shows this hasn't significantly improved job prospects. The lengthy waiting period may be a factor. Researchers suggest expanding the policy to include more serious crimes, though government resistance could prevent changes.