Holley, McKnight & Wimberly Bill Revising State Expungement Procedures Approved by Assembly Panel

(TRENTON) – On legislation (A-4498) that would revise procedures for expunging records of conviction, approved by Assembly Appropriations Monday, sponsors Assembly Democrats Jamel Holley, Angela McKnight and Benjie Wimberly issued the following statements Monday:

Holley (D-Union): “Revising state expungement law forges a path to real social justice for our citizens. Over 200,000 individuals will be eligible in New Jersey under expungements. Broader regulation will give residents the opportunity to right the wrongs of the past and clean the slate, enabling them to gain employment and seize the opportunities life presents them. I’m proud of what we have accomplished here.”

            McKnight (D-Hudson): “This was a heavy-lift with many moving parts but it had to be done in New Jersey. Making it possible for residents to clear their records, clean the slate will open the doors for employment opportunities, advancement and economic growth for those affected. Creating an avenue for residents to clear their name and their record moves New Jersey closer to equity and justice in the expungement process.”

          Wimberly (D-Bergen, Passaic): “Reevaluating the process of expungement ensures fairness in implementation for all residents of all socio-economic backgrounds. Minor convictions that could have well been removed from a person’s record with an easier process in place could change the lives and the direction of many youth in our communities. An opportunity to expunge a criminal record could mean the difference between working and not working.”