In the News
Explore how Clean Slate Virginia is making headlines and shaping the conversation around criminal justice reform. Browse our collection of news articles, interviews, and media mentions highlighting our advocacy work and the impact of clean slate policies across the Commonwealth.
WAVY
Virginia’s clean slate law goes into effect July 1
Beginning in July, certain criminal convictions will be able to be sealed from the public eye.
The goal of this law is to help individuals with certain prior convictions obtain housing or employment.
The clean slate law applies to misdemeanor convictions such as petit larceny, shoplifting, trespassing, marijuana distribution, and disorderly conduct.
WRIC
Virginia’s ‘clean slate law’ to begin in July, allowing some criminal charges to be sealed from the public
After a delay and sealing charge and conviction information from the public eye, legislation sometimes known as a “clean slate law” takes effect on Wednesday, July 1.
Loudon Now
‘Clean Slate Law’ To Begin Sealing Many Criminal Records July 1
A new state law set to take effect July 1 will hide a significant number of criminal cases from the public eye, including from background checks.
Mountain Media News
Some Virginians with past felonies can apply to seal their records, starting next month
After years of fine-tuning and preparation, a 2021 law allowing Virginians with certain past felony convictions to have their criminal records sealed will take effect July 1.
Chattanooga Times Free Press
Many Virginians’ criminal records about to be sealed
Advocates say the change will open up housing and employment opportunities, helping people to move on with their lives years after committing an offense.
ARL Now
Many Virginians’ criminal convictions about to be sealed under ‘Clean Slate’ law
The commonwealth’s “Clean Slate” law is expected to automatically seal over 100,000 criminal records of Virginians who were once convicted of misdemeanors such as shoplifting, trespassing and distributing marijuana, but who haven’t reoffended in the past seven years. This will make make housing providers and many employers unable to access such records via criminal background checks.
Associated Press
Virginia Clean Slate law to take effect July 1, sealing more than 100K low-level records
The commonwealth’s “Clean Slate” law is expected to automatically seal over 100,000 criminal records of Virginians who were once convicted of misdemeanors such as shoplifting, trespassing and distributing marijuana, but who haven’t reoffended in the past seven years.
Ottumwa Courier
Many Virginians’ criminal convictions about to be sealed under ‘Clean Slate’ law
A Virginia law going into effect on July 1 will seal the criminal records of many people convicted of low-level offenses.
U.S. News & World Report
Many Virginians’ Criminal Convictions About to Be Sealed Under ‘Clean Slate’ Law
A new Virginia law will seal the criminal records of many people convicted of low-level offenses
Virginia Mercury
Courts Criminal Justice + Policing Government + Politics Some Virginians with past felonies can apply to seal their records, starting next month
Advocates and lawmakers say record sealing will help people overcome housing and employment barriers.
Media Inquiries
For media inquiries and interview requests, journalists and press representatives can reach out using the form below. Our communications team is available to provide statements, arrange interviews with our spokespeople, or share additional information about Clean Slate Virginia’s initiatives and impact.
