Governor Pawlenty has vetoed SF560 – the adult expungement reform bill, despite unanimous passage in the Senate, bipartisan passage in the House, and strong support for passage by the Minnesota County Attorneys Association, in addition to several public safety and law enforcement leaders.
Governor Pawlenty has also vetoed the juvenile records reform bill, after it passed both the House and Senate. The bill would have made it easier for more juvenile offenders to reach their full potential as adults. This bill had bipartisan support, as well as the support of law enforcement and public safety officials.
These bills were championed by the Minnesota Second Chance Coalition, a coalition of over 45 organizations, including the Council on Crime and Justice, a founding member.
Juvenile Records Reform Act
This legislation would increase access to opportunities for personal and social growth for thousands of our youngest citizens, by limiting the unnecessary release of juvenile records allowed under several areas of current law. (Detailed Summary)
Adult Records Sealing Legislation
The bill would have preserved current expungement law while allowing judges to seal records for individuals who have completed diversion programs or have had stays of adjudication. It was developed over a period of two years, in collaboration with the Minnesota County Attorneys Association and the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. (Detailed Summary)
Juvenile Records Reform Project
The Council on Crime and Justice often hears from young adults, parents, educators, and other community members who are shocked to have learned that many types of juvenile records prevent young adults from gaining employment and housing and entering many fields of work. The Council is beginning the Juvenile Records Reform Project to promote changes to Minnesota state law that will make it easier for young people to move beyond their past mistakes and reach their full potential. Click here for more information and background resources.
2009 Enacted Legislation Information
Higher Education Notice Explanation
Click here to listen to a brief discussion of the new laws impacting higher education for those with criminal records. Courtesy of Minnesota Public Radio.
Safe Hiring Explanation
7-29-2010 MPR Morning Edition
President Pam Alexander speaks on Minnesota Public Radio about recent legislative actions aimed at reducing crack vs. cocaine sentencing disparities.
Economic Policy Institute’s Report on Unemployment by Metropolitan Area and Race
Read Report
Visit their Website
Learn about the process to seal a criminal record in Minnesota
Read about the Council's 2010 Policy Agenda
Help Crime Victims!
Volunteer as a crime victim advocate on the Council's 24 hour crisis hotline. You can work at home or in our offices. Flexible schedules.
The next Volunteer Crime Victim Hotline Trainings are:
Contact Ellen at 612-353-3005
