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flag Illinois enacts Clean Slate Act, automatically sealing nonviolent records for 1.7 million by 2034.

flag Illinois has passed the Clean Slate Act, signing into law a measure that will automatically seal nonviolent criminal records for about 1.7 million adults by 2034. flag The law, enacted on January 16, 2026, eliminates the need for individuals to file paperwork, removing barriers to jobs, housing, and education. flag Eligible records include nonviolent convictions, dismissed charges, and arrests, but serious offenses like sexual violence against minors, DUIs, and violent crimes remain excluded. flag Sealed records will be hidden from public view and background checks, though law enforcement and courts retain access. flag Implementation begins in 2029 with quarterly notifications to circuit clerks, who must seal records within 90 days, completed in three waves by 2034. flag A task force will oversee the process and report annually. flag The law aims to boost economic mobility, with estimates of $4.7 billion in annual wage gains and reduced recidivism. flag It passed the Senate 39-17 and the House 80-26 during the fall veto session.

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