Maine is finally recognizing and attempting to correct the flaws in its criminal justice system. Those who have been released from jail are walking around with “scarlet letters,” as described by state representative Thom Harnett. As of right now, thirty-four states have some kind of legislation in place that allows people to have their criminal records expunged. Maine is not one of those states… yet.
A new proposed law in Maine would enable those convicted of a Class E, Class D or Class C crime to petition the court to expunge the charge five years after they have completed their sentence. The law would have exclusions such as pending criminal charges and crimes involving bribery, corruption, violence, or sex offenses. This law is being pushed because the Maine legislature is finally noticing that the consequences of committing a crime are regularly outlasting the court sentences and essentially creating “second-class citizens.” The big red mark on ex-convicts’ criminal records can immediately take them out of the running for employment, housing, and education opportunities. This bill attempts to give them a fighting chance by facilitating the reintegration process once their charges are expunged.
The suggested bill is also receiving quite a bit of backlash from the local media. Some are arguing that a better life for those with criminal records shouldn’t put the general public at risk by not being aware of someone’s criminal record. One reporter even suggested that the law should not apply to Class C crimes, which is the lowest felony offense charge in Maine. Lawmakers responded to the backlash by pointing out the detrimental effects one simple mistake can cause in a person’s life. Maine is on the right track and will proceed to pursue this legislation as the bill is further vetted by the committee before it faces a vote. If you’re living with a conviction or arrest that is hindering your success, visit www.easyexpunctions.com today. Get started with a free background check and begin the process of wiping your record clean with one of our affordable record clearing packages today.
