Westchester County Legislator James Nolan Issues Statement on Governor Hochul Signing the Clean Slate Act

The Clean Slate Act was signed by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday, November 16, 2023, after more than a year of intense debate between advocates and opponents of the law. The Clean Slate Act will automatically seal records after three years for anyone who committed a misdemeanor and after eight years for anyone who committed a felony (except Class A felonies) and is not a registered sex offender. One of the leading challengers to the law in New York State was Westchester County Legislator James Nolan (R-Yonkers, Eastchester, Bronxville) was released the following statement in response.

“Earlier today, Governor Hochul signed the abhorrent Clean Slate Act. The Clean Slate Act will automatically seal records after three years for anyone who committed a misdemeanor and after eight years for anyone who committed a felony (except Class A felonies) and is not a registered sex offender. Passing this law is nothing more than another kick in the shins to victims of violent crimes and their loved ones. This law only serves to protect those who have committed heinous crimes. Last January, I was proud to vote against a resolution in favor of The Clean Slate Act and I thank all the elected officials in Albany who did their due diligence and voted against it. Pro-criminal, anti-victim reforms like this are foolish.“