An exciting new record sealing law just went into effect in Ohio.
Until now, most Ohioans with criminal records could never clear away the stigma of their past. But, Ohio’s new record sealing law will allow many deserving people to finally have a fresh start in life. The Ohio Justice & Policy Center zealously advocated for this reform, meeting with policy makers and directly impacted people to ensure the best version of the bill was passed.
Starting on October 29, 2018, an Ohioan with up to five lower-level felony convictions and an unlimited number of misdemeanor offenses may apply for record sealing (so long as none of the offenses are violent offenses or sexual felonies). This reform, created through Ohio Senate Bill 66, was signed into law by Gov. John Kasich on July 30, 2018. The new law expands opportunities for rehabilitated individuals to seal criminal convictions and, thereby, removes barriers to employment, housing, education, self-sufficiency, and full community reintegration.
Do you want to know more about record sealing eligibility? OJPC created this helpful guide to navigate the new law. It is a simple way to know who can apply for record sealing, what records can get sealed, and when/how to apply. Check out OJPC’s free community outreach legal clinics for help determining your personal eligibility and filing an application. The opportunity for a Second Chance is finally here!
If you have questions about SB 66, email secondchance@ohiojpc.org.
See the full criminal record sealing guide below or download here.
