Ranking third in the country for overall incarceration rates, Oklahoma is seeking to reform its criminal justice system. HB3316, the “Clean Slate” law, would provide automatic expunctions for those eligible for the program, streamlining the record-clearing process. Currently, Oklahoma provides the option of expunction to eligible individuals. However it is rarely followed through upon and many are not even aware of the option. Around 93% of eligible individuals do not obtain expungement relief. Furthermore, the process of expunction is often expensive and time-consuming, typically requiring a lawyer and court fees.
The “Clean Slate” law is expected to see a 2.8% drop in unemployment of those with criminal records, once it is in effect. This law not only rewards good behavior, but also reduces administrative costs and judicial resources for the courts. In the past, individuals seeking expungement were required to hire an attorney, schedule a hearing, and appear before a judge. An estimated 100,000 individuals will be directly impacted by the law who are currently unable to afford the legal fees involved in today’s process.
Due to the complex nature of the current record-clearing procedure, many with criminal histories are left bearing the full weight of a record for which they have, in the eyes of the court, been atoned. Reoffending is more common when those with criminal histories are denied jobs, housing, and education. Some may feel trapped by their pasts, unable to move forward into society and the workforce. The “Clean Slate” law seeks to rehabilitate and empower these individuals to begin again.
Easy Expunctions offers eligible individuals who are not impacted by HB3316 the opportunity for a clean slate. At Easy Expunctions, we pride ourselves on a simple, inexpensive, and 100% online record-clearing process. Give yourself the gift of a secure tomorrow by clicking EasyExpunctions.com or calling (866) 775-9983 and speaking with the friendly professionals at EE!