Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel heard from people assisted by an Upper Peninsula program that helps expunge criminal records on Friday, August 19. She learned about their experiences during a visit to Marquette.
The Michigan Works! ‘Clean Slate U-P’ program covers attorney fees and other costs for those who want their records cleared of certain offenses.
Officials hope that leads to better careers, housing, and education.
A man whose record was recently expunged told Nessel his felony was the biggest barrier to getting a good job.
“I’m a career tradesman, so I work with my hands. But the best way I can put it to someone is like having dirty hands and not being able to get them clean.”
Nessel says getting rid of criminal convictions leads to much better earning potential.
“I think the stats are… within one year of a person getting their record expunged, their income increases nearly 25 percent," Nessel said.
Next year’s funding for attorneys is threatened, but Michigan Works! officials say they will still be available to help with the expungement process.