Clean Slate Utah: Transforming Lives Through Automatic Expungement
We help people to transition off government benefits, become workers, enter our tax base. And I'm sure, with the image Utah has around the country, they think conservative, Republican, lds-dominated state and they're doing this. And my response is, it was a lot of work.
Imagine having a criminal record that haunts you, making it hard to find a job or secure housing. Now, picture that burden being lifted automatically and for free. In this eye-opening episode of 'Odyssey House Journals', TV news veteran Randall Carlisle sits down with Noella Sudbury, the executive director of Clean Slate Utah, to discuss a groundbreaking new law that does just that.
Sudbury, a lawyer with a passion for social justice, explains how the Clean Slate Utah law is a game-changer for the 200,000 Utahns burdened by a criminal record. This law automatically expunges eligible criminal records, simplifying what was once a costly and complicated process. Sudbury dives into the challenges of implementing this law, like unreliable addresses and the fear of sending notices to the wrong person.
Despite these hurdles, she passionately believes in giving people a second chance to rebuild their lives. Sudbury's dedication stems from her understanding of the trauma, mental health issues, and substance abuse that often lead to criminal behavior. She sees the recovery community as tight-knit and supportive, and she’s on a mission to change the system from within. This episode isn’t just informative; it’s inspiring.
Carlisle and Sudbury cover everything from the specifics of what's eligible for automatic expungement to common questions people have about the law. If you're one of the many Utahns with a criminal record or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen. It’s packed with valuable information and offers a beacon of hope for those seeking to start anew. Tune in to learn how Clean Slate Utah could be the fresh start you've been waiting for.