For many of us, spring is a moment of new beginnings, which is why April is designated as Second Chance Month. This time is dedicated to those who are still dealing with the consequences of a criminal record. They are, unfortunately, still being defined by the worst day of their lives. Ninety four percent of employers use background checks to screen out applicants with records. Ninety percent of landlords use background checks to screen out applicants with records. And 72 percent of colleges and universities use background checks to screen out applicants with records.

Last year, I participated in a “Hill Day” organized by The Clean Slate Initiative. Joined by bipartisan policy advocates from a diverse group of organizations, I escorted people to House and Senate offices so they could share their lived experiences with members of Congress and congressional staff while advocating for a federal Clean Slate Act.

As vice president of Due Process Institute and a long-time conservative advocate, lobbying is certainly not new to me, but this experience was personal.........

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