NEW YORK — A new state law wipes criminal records clean for millions of people in New York.
Starting Saturday, state criminal records will be automatically sealed under certain background checks for almost 2.5 million New Yorkers. The new law states misdemeanors get sealed three years after sentencing or release and felonies after eight years.
Any cases with ongoing criminal charges, probation or parole would not be eligible. Sex crimes, murder and other serious non-drug related felonies will remain public, and the law does not apply to federal crimes or convictions in other states.
Under the new law, police investigations, legal proceedings and employers in sensitive industries or fields can still access sealed records.
Supporters say it will fill jobs and help the economy, but not everybody thinks it’s a good idea.
“There has to be redemption”
Officials say it will open doors for employment opportunities.