Multiple groups in Michigan have teamed up to help people expunge records under the new Clean Slate law. They also strive to make expungement more accessible. These groups include law firms, criminal justice groups, and cannabis reform organizations, forming the Great Lakes Expungement Network.
As a matter of fact, the nonprofit Redemption Foundation supports the network. The Redemption Cannabis brand founded the foundation along with the Sons and Daughters United nonprofit.
“Past criminal offenses can create unnecessary barriers to housing and employment long after someone has paid their dues to society,” Josh Covert, the network’s legal services director and partner at Michigan Cannabis Lawyers, said.
A law study from the University of Michigan found that individuals who expunged their records experienced a wage increase of 25 percent, attained improved housing options, and increased employment likelihood by 11 percent.
In a statement, Covert talked about the importance of helping people through the application process for the Clean Slate Law. He also mentioned that cannabis prohibition harms many Michigan residents.
The same study found that only 6.5 percent of those able to delete their records did so within five years of eligibility. This was due to costs and other complications. Therefore, the network strives to make expungement more accessible.
According to the Attorney General of Michigan; up to 1 million residents may now qualify for expungement under the law that took effect this year (2021).
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Ryan Basore, a founder of The Redemption Foundation and the Redemption Cannabis brand, aims to change those numbers.
“Many people are unaware of their eligibility, and even more are burdened by complicated forms and the hefty expense which can cost thousands of dollars on average,” Basore said. “Organizers at the Great lake Expungement Network are dedicated to helping people navigate the state’s complex expungement process.”
Several law firms are supporting the network; for a complete list, click here.
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