What is the clean slate bill in California?

What is the new law for felons in California?

California's recent laws, notably SB 731 (effective July 2024), Proposition 47, and Proposition 36 (2024), focus on automating the sealing of most non-violent felony records after 4 years, allowing for reduced sentences from felonies to misdemeanors, and implementing "treatment-mandated" options for drug offenses. These reforms aim to reduce recidivism and help formerly incarcerated individuals obtain housing and employment.

Can a felon get a passport?

A passport is a federal ID, and some convictions or unresolved legal issues can affect approval. Many felons can still qualify if they've completed their sentence, probation, or parole, have no active warrants, and have resolved fines or child-support obligations.

Will a felony show up on a background check after 10 years in California?

If you have an old felony conviction on your record in California, you might wonder if it will still appear on background checks. The short answer is yes, a felony stays on your record unless you take action to remove it. In California, criminal convictions don't disappear on their own.

Can I go to Canada if I had a felony 20 years ago?

Yes, you may be able to enter Canada 20 years after a felony conviction, but it is not automatic. While you might be "deemed rehabilitated" after 10+ years (if the offense was not severe), Canada border officials can still deny entry based on the conviction, regardless of how long ago it occurred.

How do I get rid of a criminal record?

Removal (expungement) of a Criminal Record

1. Ten years have lapsed after the date of the conviction of your offence.
2. You did not receive a direct prison sentence for your conviction except a sentence of periodical imprisonment or correctional supervision.

What is the new divorce law in California 2026?

Starting January 1, 2026, California introduces a Joint Petition for Dissolution (Senate Bill 1427), allowing couples to file for divorce together as a team rather than using the traditional "Petitioner vs. Respondent" format. This creates a more cooperative, less adversarial process for couples with children or assets.

What is the second chance law in California?

California’s "second chance" laws, primarily the Clean Slate Act (AB 1076 & SB 731), automatically seal eligible arrest and conviction records for individuals who have completed their sentences and remained crime-free, eliminating the need for petitions. As of 2024, this includes most non-violent felonies and misdemeanors.

What is the $3000 rule for cars?

The $3,000 rule for cars generally refers to a budgeting strategy suggesting that if you cannot afford at least a $3,000 down payment or cash purchase, you may not be financially prepared for the full costs of ownership. It acts as a safety buffer for purchasing used vehicles and covering immediate repairs or taxes.

What crimes are automatically expunged in California?

Under California's laws, three types of records are eligible for automatic relief: arrests that do not result in convictions (non-convictions); misdemeanor convictions that do not require registration under California's sex offender registry law; and felony convictions for non-serious, non-violent, and non- ...

How do I expunge my felony record in California?

To request dismissal, use form CR-430. You should also include form CR-431 (which the court will forward to the California Department of Corrections or the appropriate county authority to confirm your successful participation) and form CR-432 (which the judge will use to grant or deny your request).

What is the new law in California for expungement?

As of 2026, California's "Clean Slate" laws, primarily SB 731, significantly expand automatic, record-sealing for millions with old conviction records. The law, which ramped up in 2023-2024, automatically clears most non-serious, non-violent, non-sexual felony and misdemeanor convictions if the person completed their sentence and had no further justice system contact for four years.

Does TSA check your criminal record?

TSA may also determine that an applicant is not eligible if the security threat assessment process reveals extensive foreign or domestic criminal convictions, a conviction for a serious crime not listed in Part A or B below (including some lesser included offenses of serious crimes; e.g. murder/voluntary manslaughter), ...

Can a felon go to Japan?

It is difficult for a felon to enter Japan, as Japanese immigration law often denies entry to anyone sentenced to over a year in prison or convicted of drug offenses, regardless of how old the conviction is. While some may enter by not disclosing convictions, this risks deportation, as Japan maintains strict, often electronic, immigration screening.

Does your criminal record show up when your passport is scanned in Canada?

Your criminal record does not appear on your passport or automatically display during a scan. However, border officers may have access to separate law enforcement systems operated by agencies such as the Canada Border Services Agency, which are distinct from passport data.

What crimes can't be expunged in California?

Felonies That Cannot Be Expunged in California

• Crimes Requiring Lifetime Sex Offender Registration. Felonies that require registration under California's sex offender laws are typically ineligible. ...
• Homicide and Capital Offenses. ...
• Serious Violent Felonies. ...
• Felonies Resulting in State Prison Terms. ...
• Certain Special Statutes.

Who hires felons in CA?

Many companies in California hire individuals with felony convictions, particularly in industries like logistics, manufacturing, construction, and food service. Major employers with records of hiring felons include Tesla, Apple, Albertsons, FedEx, Amazon, and various hotels and restaurant chains. "Fair Chance" employers, including the County of Los Angeles, often evaluate applicants on a case-by-case basis under California's "ban the box" law.

What is the California 7 year rule?

In California, the "7-year rule" generally prohibits consumer reporting agencies and employers from reporting or considering non-conviction arrests, sealed records, or criminal convictions older than seven years (from the date of disposition, release, or parole) in background checks, with exceptions for high-salary or specific sensitive positions.

What country will accept felons?

Felons with a valid passport can travel to many countries, particularly in Latin America, the Caribbean, and parts of Europe, provided they have completed their sentence and are not on probation/parole. Popular destinations with fewer restrictions include Mexico, Colombia, Italy, and Thailand. Countries with strict bans, such as Canada, Australia, and Japan, often deny entry for serious or recent convictions.

Can a felon go on a cruise?

Yes, a felon can go on a cruise, but it depends on the nature of the conviction, the destination, and whether they are off probation/parole. While there is no federal law banning felons from cruising, major lines like Carnival may deny boarding for violent crimes (e.g., sexual assault, armed robbery).

Can a felon fly on a plane?

Yes, a convicted felon can generally fly on a plane within the United States. Federal law does not prohibit travel based on a felony conviction. However, if you are currently on probation or parole, you must obtain written permission from your probation officer to travel, particularly across state lines.