"Barriers to Bridges: Clean Slate Laws & Public Health" A Timely Webinar During Second Chance Month and National Public Health Week

 "Barriers to Bridges: Clean Slate Laws & Public Health" A Timely Webinar During Second Chance Month and National Public Health Week

Exploring how automated record sealing promotes health equity, economic opportunity, and stronger communities

SPRINGFIELD, MA - The Public Health Institute of Western MA invites the public to a compelling and timely webinar on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM EST, titled "Barriers to Bridges: Clean Slate Laws & Public Health." Coinciding with Second Chance Month and National Public Health Week (April 7-13), this free, 60-minute event will explore how clean slate laws can positively impact public health, economic opportunity, and racial equity.

Registration is free and open to the public at this Zoom Registration Link. Learn more at www.PublicHealthWM.org.

Criminal records often create long-term obstacles to employment, housing, and healthcare - key social determinants of health. Clean Slate legislation, which would automate the sealing of eligible criminal records, offers a promising path toward a more equitable and healthier society.

This webinar will feature insights from leaders across public health, policy, and advocacy who will offer a well-rounded conversation on the health, legislative, and economic dimensions of clean slate policy:

• Dr. Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative, a national organization championing policies that expand second chances through record clearance.

• Senator Adam Gomez, representing the Massachusetts State Senate and a key advocate for criminal justice reform and economic equity.

• Jessica Collins, Executive Director of the Public Health Institute of Western MA, whose work centers health equity and community well-being.

• Jay Ash, CEO of the Massachusetts Competitive Partnership, bringing a business perspective to the importance of second chances and economic inclusion.
  
  

This virtual event will offer insight into:

• How criminal offender record information (CORIs) impacts health and well-being

• Why so few people who are eligible have sealed records

• The current status of clean slate legislation in Massachusetts

• Why employers are increasingly backing these reforms

• How you can take action to support equitable record-sealing policies
  
  

“Clean slate policies are more than just legal reforms - they’re public health interventions,” said Dr. Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative national organization. “Our communities are safer when people can access stable housing, meaningful work, and healthcare without the weight of a past record. It’s time we recognize record sealing as a tool for  healing, opportunity, and lasting change.”