City officials are pushing for Gov. Kathy Hochul to pass the Clean Slate Act to give non-violent offenders a second chance at life. It would seal their criminal record several years after they are released from prison. 

David Delancy, who was formerly incarcerated, tells News 12 that the paper trail from a wrong decision he made as a teenager 40 years ago, prevents him from getting jobs and housing for his family. 

“I made a mistake at 17-years-old. I’m 60 now and that still pops up,” says Delancy. “That still disqualifies me for certain things in society that I need to survive.” 

Gregory Pierce from the Prospect Lefferts Gardens section of Brooklyn served time and feels this bill should’ve passed years ago. 

“There’s so many people suffering behind this bill,” says Pierce. 

City Councilmember Farah Louis (D-District 45) says 2.3 million New Yorkers are suffering. 

People “who have already done their time and they’re living in bondage,” says Louis. “They’re not able to get an education. They’re not able to apply for public housing.” 

While Gov. Hochul has shown support for the act, she would like some amendments, like extending the time to seal the records. The group wants it passed as is.