FPWA Celebrates Landmark Victory with the Signing of the Clean Slate Act, a Milestone for Economic and Racial Justice in New York

New York, NY (November 16, 2023) — FPWA thunderously applauds the signing of the Clean Slate Act into law! This important legislative victory, longtime supported by FPWA, advances economic and racial justice, particularly for those who’ve been disproportionately impacted by laws and practices that have penalized justice involved persons well beyond time served. As we have consistently highlighted in our work, such as the “Ending the Poverty to Prison Pipeline” Report, systemic criminalization of poverty, which includes the over-policing of low-income communities must be dismantled.

“The passing of the Clean Slate Act is about economic justice, morality, redemption, and human dignity,” says Jennifer Jones Austin, CEO and Executive Director, FPWA. “This legislation plays a crucial role in guaranteeing that every resident of New York can secure stable employment and housing. Clean Slate has the power to breathe new life into our communities, empowering individuals who’ve been justice involved to start a new life filled with opportunity. The passing of this law puts us on a path to truly achieve justice for all.”

FPWA is a leading anti-poverty policy and advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening human services organizations and faith institutions, and advancing economic opportunity and justice for New Yorkers with low incomes. Since 1922, FPWA has driven groundbreaking policy reforms to better serve those in need. We work to dismantle the systemic barriers that impede economic security and well-being, and strengthen the capacity of human services agencies and faith organizations so New Yorkers with lower incomes can thrive and live with dignity.

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