The Legislature today passed AB 1384, authored by Assembly Member Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), which aims to reduce the recidivism rate in California prisons by making it easier for low-level offenders to obtain employment.

AB 1384 amends the California Penal Code to give courts more discretion to expunge misdemeanors and infractions from the criminal records of persons who have otherwise demonstrated good behavior and rehabilitation.

"One of the biggest obstacles to reentering society for a convicted person is the inability to obtain gainful employment," Bradford said. "Employers are wary of a person with a criminal offense, even a minor one, on their record."

California law currently allows courts discretion in dismissing a person's conviction if that person was sentenced to probation. AB 1384 extends this benefit to persons not sentenced to probation, and to persons convicted of an infraction.

"Our recidivism rate is the highest in the nation," Bradford continued. "We cannot afford to hold the revolving door open for even low-level offenders to return. We should be encouraging them to get jobs and start contributing to society again."

AB 1384 was supported by a number of organizations and agencies, including the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. The bill now heads to the Governor's desk for his signature.

CONTACT: Matt Stauffer, 310-412-6400