"Clean Start Act of 2022"

This bill, introduced by Mr. Manchin in the Senate, aims to provide for the sealing of records related to nonviolent criminal offenses related to substance use disorders. The bill adds a new subchapter to Title 18 of the United States Code, which includes definitions and procedures for sealing criminal records.

Section 1 of the bill establishes the short title as the "Clean Start Act of 2022."

Section 2 of the bill amends Chapter 229 of Title 18, United States Code, by adding a new subchapter titled "Sealing of Criminal Records." This subchapter includes definitions of terms used in the bill, such as "covered nonviolent offense," "covered treatment program," and "eligible individual." It also establishes procedures for filing a sealing petition and conducting a sealing hearing. The court must consider various factors, such as the petitioner's rehabilitation and the public's safety, when determining whether to enter a sealing order.

Section 3 of the bill provides incentives to states that have laws allowing the sealing of adult criminal records or that provide individuals who have successfully sealed their records protection from civil and criminal perjury laws. These states may receive preferential consideration when applying for grants under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968.

The Attorney General is required to issue guidelines and provide technical assistance to help states comply with the incentives provided in Section 3.

S 5146 Clean Start Act of 2022

US Congress 117th Congress

Bill Texts

Introduced 12/01/2022

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Sponsors (1)

Sen. Joe Manchin

Primary Sponsor