In May 2009, this group began its effort to secure passage of expungement legislation by the U. S. Congress. We believe that first time; non-violent ex-offenders suffer punishment far beyond that decreed by the courts. The result of a federal felony conviction is, effectively, a civil death sentence for one who has paid their full debt to society. There is no redress for this injustice.

Our work began in support of H.R.1529 the “Second Chance for Ex-Offenders Act of 2009” sponsored by Rep. Charles Rangel. Rangel recently introduced HR2065 the “Second Chance for Ex-Offenders Act of 2011”, the 7th version his legislation. Rep. Rangel has introduced expungement legislation in each session of congress since the year 2000. All have died in committee.

In 2010, Rep. Steve Cohen introduced H.R.5492, the "Fresh Start Act of 2010". The legislation, while similar to Rep. Rangel's, offered more benefits. One benefit provides incentives to the states to implement expungement procedures for state offenses. Of greater import is the provision allowing automatic expunction after a period seven years for those who qualify. Our decision was to place our full support behind the Cohen bill.

As with all previous expungement legislation, H.R.5492 died in committee at the end of the 111th Congress.

Continuing our effort, group members made contact with Rep. Cohen's office and were assured that the bill would be reintroduced. Working with members of his staff, several suggestions for improvement were provided.

We are pleased that on July 7, 2011 Congressman Cohen re-introduced his legislation as H.R.2449 the "Fresh Start Act of 2011". Several of the changes recommended by this group were included in the new bill. The text of the bill is available under the "files" tab on this page

We invite you to join us and add your voice to our effort to see expungement legislation passed in this, the 112th Congress.

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