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H.R. 1529, The Second Chance for Ex-Offenders Act of 2009 (517 comments ↓ | 4 wiki edits)
H.R. 1529 would permit expungement of records of certain nonviolent criminal offenses.
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Visitor Comments 
veteran
March 18, 2009, 5:48pm (report abuse)Thank God! This bill must pass during this session! Do all you can to tell your congressmen that this is absolutely necessary to restore millions of people to full productive citizenship. Thank you Congressman Rangel for your courage and good work for this country.
TomJenkins
March 19, 2009, 9:19am (report abuse)It's time to bring some sanity and fairness back into our justice system. This bill will go a long way towards helping us accomplish that.
SarahC
March 19, 2009, 9:56am (report abuse)My brother has been shut out of getting a good job because of a mistake he made 20 years ago, and it was only because he was in the same car as the guy who was hiding marijuana and they were both charged with the crime. Maybe he should have known better than to be in the same car as his friend, but he was only 20 and he also didn't know how to defend himself and did a plea bargain and now he is ruined for life. Please pass this law so good people can get on with their lives.
Jaime Woodard
March 19, 2009, 12:09pm (report abuse)I recently started WE DESERVE OUR LIVES BACK.com a site build for H. R. 1529. On March 19, 2009 I was informed by Congressmen Rangels' New York Office that H.R. 1529 passed last year but Bush did not sign it. Let\'s write President Obama he opposed this bill as a senator, we must convince the President of our struggle. If Obama signs this bill we will have won our lives back )
QuinJarrett
March 19, 2009, 1:27pm (report abuse)This bill will not cost taxpayers any money, and will probably add thousands of new taxpayers to the system. Also, it gives incentive for people who have made a mistake in their past to obey the law and contribute to society. The existing system just encourages people to give up. I'm for Rangle's bill.
JeffSanders
March 20, 2009, 3:33pm (report abuse)I am all for this bill. Everyone deserves a second chance, and some people may not like to admit it, but no one is perfect. If an ex-offender is sincerely trying to rebuild his life, then why stop him? Remember what Jesus said about the forgiven debtors - the one who was forgiven for the greater debt turned around and appreciated it the most.
Aaron
March 20, 2009, 9:43pm (report abuse)Sounds good to me. It won't cost tax $$$. More people who can work and earn their own living can only help the economy.
Cam Wallace
March 21, 2009, 10:20am (report abuse)I emailed my congressman in Kentucky to support this bill, but he might not be very helpful, he doesn't represent poor or minority or other non powerful voters too much. If you live in a state with better representatives, please write or fax them and tell them to support this bill. Thanks.
ChrisD
March 22, 2009, 9:30am (report abuse)It's been 16 years since I broke the law, and it was a stupid mistake involving a prank which hurt no one. I deserved to be punished, but not to have my entire life ruined. There are swindlers, rapists and drug pushers going about their business unpunished while millions of others, who have made a single non-violent mistake cannot get a decent job to support themselves and their families, and pay taxes. It makes you lose faith in thic country. Support this bill. It will help restore a little justice.
CarmenAguila
March 22, 2009, 5:06pm (report abuse)This is fair, most states have court-administered expungement of records for non-violent offenses if the person is eligible. There needs to be something equivalent at federal levels.
Martin K.
March 22, 2009, 8:56pm (report abuse)I don't see any dissent on this issue (except in the polling). Stop with the hit and runs.
Dave E.
March 22, 2009, 10:58pm (report abuse)My congressman is Danny Davis. I will contact him - he supports positive legislation like this. MAybe this is the year....
Samuel
March 23, 2009, 9:56am (report abuse)The second chance would be an answer to my prayers. I hope this passes soon.
broken
March 26, 2009, 12:20am (report abuse)Too many lives are being ruined because the way things are now, a person can't recover from an early mistake, even if the mistake wasn't their fault. If you don't have any hope of recovery, you just want to give up and stop trying to find work or join the armed forces or do anything to support yourself or your family. Maybe people think that something like this could never happen to them because they are law-abiding and moral, but it could! The courts do not have time to sort out situations where you act in self-defense or if you are implicated in a crime just by your location (and sometimes your social status). Please work for this bill and give people back their lives.
logical
March 26, 2009, 10:04am (report abuse)Even if you are a law-abiding person who means well, do not think that you can't be branded with a conviction at some time in your life. If it happens to you or someone you care about, then you will understand how restrictive our system is, and how it can even drive people into crime. Do all you can to support this bill and make our country a better place.
Sean53
March 26, 2009, 10:23pm (report abuse)Please support hr1529, it is the only chance for some people to ever get employers to even consider hiring them. A good job is the best way to keep people from possibly committing a crime in the first place. A lifelong record affects families too.
LamarBraden
March 27, 2009, 10:32am (report abuse)I think this will reduce crime because it gives incentive to obey the law even after one foul-up. Also there should be some pretty high profile people wanting to support this because they might have an old conviction they want to clear up and have a clean slate.
Marla
March 27, 2009, 6:51pm (report abuse)I pray that this bill is passed. The current system is set up so that the ex-offender is bound to fail. This would put thousands and thousands of people back to work and and by all reason that would make a huge impact on the economy! We don\'t want to be on welfare, dependent on food stamps, we can work! We want to have a normal life and that is impossible with current laws. Having a great education that resulted in a PhD and on welfare?? Whats wrong with this picture? One mistake shouldn\'t ruin a persons life. Its time to make the right choice and pass this!
Cal Grayson Texas
March 28, 2009, 12:46pm (report abuse)I am also praying for this bill to pass. there is no other way for thousands of people to get a decent job. Employers will not even consider anyone with a conviction, no matter how old or inconsequential it was. It's just too easy to dismiss people without giving them a chance. This bill will give us a chance to rebuild our lives, take care of our families, pay taxes and contribute to society.
Thomas K
March 28, 2009, 1:42pm (report abuse)Please go to We Deserve Our Lives Back wedeserveourlivesback.com and sign the petition. Write every member of congress that you can especially those on the judicial committee, write the president THIS MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO DIE
BrokenHearted Dad
March 28, 2009, 1:49pm (report abuse)Don't stop praying if you think it helps but for Gods sake don't wait around. Do something yourself. Sign the petition at wedeserveourlivesback.com. Write every member of congress that you can.Don't sit around waiting for someone else to fix this travisty of justice. 1st time non violent offenders should not and must not be required to serve what amounts to a life sentence because they have no means of clearing their record. This is the most human and humane bill to be introduced in a long time.
Marla
March 28, 2009, 10:40pm (report abuse)I cant imagine why anyone would vote against this. How could it not be the right choice?? It is a win/win situation no matter how you look at it. Putting thousands of people to work makes so much sense...
darnellreed
(logged in user) March 30, 2009, 1:08am (report abuse)Marla's right. This bill just makes sense, and it is a good situation for everyone involved - the ex-offenders, their families, their communities... Why wouldn't anyone want well-meaning people to earn a second chance and get back to work? If everyone who isn't perfect was condemned for life, then no one would be working at all!
Syd Crofton
March 30, 2009, 3:18pm (report abuse)This bill has been introduced in about 4 or 5 previous legislative sessions - we can't let it die in session this time! I'm faxing the members of the Judiciary Committee to let them know that we expect them to pass a common sense bill like this one. Wasserman-Schultz is my rep - and I think she will listen. If you live in a state with a representative on the committee - call them!! Tell them to add some justice to our justice system.
Ted_Gates
March 31, 2009, 11:41pm (report abuse)I pray for H.R. 1529 to pass this session. I've been turned down from two really good jobs I was qualified for during the past few years because I had an old conviction on record and it doesn't matter what else you can offer, the mistake of your past will kill any chance for the future.
Families Are Hurting
April 1, 2009, 1:04pm (report abuse)Please, follow Syd's lead. Get Involved. Call, write fax,whatever it takes to reach your representitive. Tell everyone you know how important this is. Go to the following site and sign ther petition wedeserveourlivesback.com
clint
April 5, 2009, 4:23pm (report abuse)How can congress or the President truly be for a reduction of crime if they are against this bill? At some point the maddening cries of hungry and want from ypour love ones take precedent over marality and decency. Please pass the bill!!
First Offense
April 6, 2009, 1:02pm (report abuse)I am praying myself that this bill will pass. The Second Chance Act that was passed last year is a "joke." How can it be a "Second Chance" when you are still classified as a nobody in the eyes of society, not being able to seek gainful employment. I have already contacted my representative and hoping that he too will support this "Bill." The "Bill" that was passed last year was just to quiet society as if something is really being done. It is about time Congress realise that we are not looking for hand-outs, but instead we are able bodied and willing to work. I am pretty sure that all the people who have commented here are trying to get back in main stream society to work, pay taxes, support their families and live a life of integrity. Let us all keep the FAITH and keep on pushing forward.
MicheL
April 7, 2009, 6:07pm (report abuse)I have contacted my Congressman and Senator. But it seems we need to impress upon members and Chairman Conyers of Judiciary Committee - as the bill died there last year in 110th Congress. So everyone needs to call 202-225-3951 or write to 2138 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515 - every day, before they meet again on April 20th, 2009.
Even if you've written to your Rep already encourage your families and friends to inundate, every day - Conyers (MI), Berman (CA), Bobby Scott & Boucher (VA), JC Watts (NC), Maxine Waters (CA), Jackson Lee (TX), DelaHunt, Wexler etc.
Get your Churches, community organizers, non-profits, grass rootjustice organizations to write every day to Congress, the Senate and the President - this is the only way we will not be ignored.
HaveMercy
(logged in user) April 8, 2009, 2:04am (report abuse)Contact every member (every day) of the House Judiciary Committee : John Conyers 202-225-5126, fax: 202-225-0072* Tammy Baldwin 202-225-2906, fax: 202-225-6942* Howard Berman 202-225-4695, fax: 202-225-3196 * Rick Boucher fax: 202-225-0442* Jason Chaffetz fax: 202-225-5629 * Howard Coble fax: 202-225-8611* Steve Cohen fax: 202-225-5663* Bill Delahunt fax: 202-225-5658 * Charles Gonzalez, fax: 202-225-1915* Luis Gutierrez, fax: 202-225-7810* Henry "Hank" Johnson fax: 202-226-0691* Sheila Jackson Lee fax: 202-225-3317* Dan Maffei fax: 202-225-4042* Jerrold Nadler fax: 202-225-6923* Linda Sanchez, fax: 202-226-1012* Adam B. Schiff fax: 202-225-5828* Bobby Scott fax:202-225-8354* F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. fax: (202) 225-3190* Brad Sherman fax: 202-225-5879 * Debbie Wasserman Schultz fax: 202-226-2052* Maxine Waters fax: 202-225-7854* Melvin L. Watt fax: 202-25-1512* Anthony D. Weiner fax: 202-226-7253
Tara M
April 8, 2009, 10:17am (report abuse)Thanks to Honorable Rangel we have a chance to get it to pass this year. Come on folks you voted for change '08 - now you and your families can get every man woman and child to contact as many House Reps, movie stars, Martha Stewart, Li'l Kim and so on - get them to get their Reps behind this. It has failed every year since 2005, come on lets get it passed in 2009!
In Need of Help
April 8, 2009, 5:32pm (report abuse)Why are there 73% against this? A federal conviction is eternal long after you've served your sentence and repaid your debts to society and then some. . . Please please every one let us get this bill passed this year.
Pho
April 9, 2009, 3:51am (report abuse)Vice president Joe Biden was for this bill when it was introduced as H.R 623 in 2007 when he was a Senator.
Connor O'Byrne
April 11, 2009, 1:27am (report abuse)I'll work for this bill. Thanks for posting the fax numbers, HaveMercy.
T.B. O"Bryan
April 13, 2009, 10:39pm (report abuse)It's been almost 20 years since I paid for an old mistake that hurt no one, but I still can't offer my skills and education to a good employer, if you have an old conviction, nothing else matters. They don't want to hear about it. It's incredibly discouraging. This bill will change things for millions of people who just want to work again.
FJ Rankin
April 14, 2009, 10:51am (report abuse)No second chances. You threw away what you had and now you whine.
T.B. O'Bryan
April 14, 2009, 11:33am (report abuse)Describing a draconian injustice is not whining. We are working to solve a problem in our system which affects everyone, even you. If you are ever unjustly convicted of a crime, Miss Rankin, this oppportunity for redemption will be there for you, too. You can't feed people with self-appointed superiority, only with good work.
Kell'e
April 15, 2009, 12:38pm (report abuse)I am a felon who served 4 yrs. in prison. I am Bi Polar and was completely manic and poorly managed by "the best" psychiatrists which led to text book manic behavior and then I ended up in prison. When I got out I had all odds against me. I was released considered mentally ill and a felon making the job market nearly impossible. My first week out a friend in a 12 step program got me a factory job paying $8 an hr.-That lasted 2 days. I found my way into an industry that I knew nothing about and in less than 4 yrs. researched the industry, made connections, and climbed. Upon leaving prison I was told that 85% of inmates return within 6mos. and the remainder return within a yr. Sounded like I had no chance!This yr I took a position with a company and became the corporate trainer,auditor,and DM responsible for 11 stores in three states @ $40,000 a yr w/ a company vahicle, expense account and all the extras. Ive just been terminated due to a terminated employee saying I was a felon.
M
April 16, 2009, 8:27am (report abuse)Rankin, close minded people like you are whats wrong with this country. You think you're above everyone else and clearly look down on anyone that isn't "perfect" in your eyes.I feel sorry for you that you can show no compassion or empathy for someone that made a mistake.
Brokenhearted Dad
April 16, 2009, 9:50pm (report abuse)Don't give Rankin to hard of a time.At least he had the guts to post his convictions. Of the 74% who voted against this bill he is alone in commenting. He at least gives the rest of us a chance to refute him.I challenge him and all who voted against to visit a minimum-security camp,watch people try to maintain families and then say they don't deserve a second chance.Don't forget, we are only speaking of 1st time non-violent offenders.Think Martha Stewart not Al Capone.Think of 19-20 year old whose sentence is only 12 months probation but must still live with the stigma for the rest of his life. not medlin drug cartel. You must get the word out to everyone you know. Beg if you have to for their support.Sign the petition at wedeserveourlivesback.com. Call/ write congress.The bill is currently in the judiciary.Do as I have done and write to each member of the committee and to your own representatives.This is personal for me. Make it the same for yourself & Fight.Rankins day will come.
Karen R.
April 17, 2009, 9:19am (report abuse)It makes it so hard for someone with a record to get a job, even if their offensse happened years ago. Please do what you can to pass this bill, it will help lots of people regain pride in themselves.
Debbie
April 17, 2009, 1:41pm (report abuse)If a person serves the time that our wonderful (cough cough) justice system imposes on them, why should they continue to pay for the rest of their lives for their mistake. Do we not teach our children that if you do something wrong, you take your consequences and then life goes on?? well,why can't the same concept be apply to the the men and women who serve their ridicously(sp) long sentences and have taken their consequences..Why can't they be able to come out, get a decent paying job and learn from their mistakes and go on with life...the current system still punishes our loved ones long after they are out of prison..PLEASE SUPPORT THIS BILL
Drill
April 17, 2009, 11:57pm (report abuse)WE NEED THIS BILL PASSED FOR ALL THE ONES WHO HAS DONE SOMETHING THAT THEY REGRET AND PAID THE PRICE FOR. I HAVE NOT WORKED SINCE 2007 FOR SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED IN 2003 IN THE US ARMY. A MINOR CHARGE GAVE ME A BCD WITH NO BENEFITS AFTER I CAME FROM IRAQ AND SERVED MY COUNTRY. HELP US ALL.
..
April 18, 2009, 9:16am (report abuse)OH BULL PUCKEY! You don't get a Bad Conduct Discharge for a "minor" offense.
Hector Gonzalez
April 18, 2009, 10:28am (report abuse)I'm also a veteran of the war in Iraq and did two tours. I support this bill because I know of one good guy in my unit who got into trouble after he got so stressed out that he did some things he shouldn't have (forgery and mail fraud) when he had money and family problems. He didn't hurt anyone but himself, and is ok now after some time at home, but his future is ruined. This guy served our country, he sort of gave up his life for it, but his country is giving him the "up yours!" because he is branded forever as not a real citizen. I will do all I can to support this bill because I have seen what our system can do to people.
Denae
April 20, 2009, 3:44pm (report abuse)Why is it so hard to give someone a second chance in life. This bill need to be passed. Our Senators and Congressmen have been voted on by us " The People", why dont they realize that those that are in office ,some also given a second chance to represent us. So they need to sit back and support what we the people want. We want our family and friends to be given this second chance to come home and help make things right with their families, and children.
JacksonBrown
April 21, 2009, 9:40am (report abuse)I'm for this bill. It's the only way people can get a good job if they have ever been convicted - rightly or wrongly- in the past. The only reason I can think of for opposing it would be if someone is in the business of disenfranchising people (e.g. private snoops, prisons for profits, etc.) Instead of targetting good people who are trying to rebuild their lives, let law enforcement and the corrections people go after the true threats to our safety and well-being - like the violent criminals, terrrorists and large-scale thieves.
Courtney Angelo
April 21, 2009, 10:18am (report abuse)I am praying that this bill finally gets passed this session.
Michelle L
April 22, 2009, 1:08am (report abuse)I don't understand why there is more BUZZ about this Bill. I've gone to FedCure, and other activist sites but no one seems to be pushing for this to happen. . . .PLEASE we need to get the word out. . .get someone famous to Twitter about maybe?
Ray-ma NY
April 22, 2009, 10:53pm (report abuse)Listen,there is only one think to do if we want this renamed bill passed. Either way apparently Congressman John Conyers of the Judiciary Committee cannot make up his mind that the time is long overdue to let this bill reach the full Congress for consideration.
I just wrote a letter to President Obama and told him about the silent suffering of millions of Americans because of these inhumane,wrong and oppressive federal laws.
I believe that he will understand better than any other previous President and act upon using the power of his office to move this bill and make it into law.
I also have a suggestion. Let's organize for a trip to Washington,D.C. and demonstrate peacefully in front of the Judiciary Committee,the Senate and the House of Representatives.
If you want to write send letters to Congressman John Conyers and to President Barack Obama. We need to be heard. One observation: I don't like that requirement of 1000 hrs of community work. What about if you're over 40?
Wanting another chance
April 23, 2009, 11:44am (report abuse)To Ray-ma-I agree with you that if we want to see this bill pass this session, a peaceful demonstration to the members of the committee voicing our concerns may not be a bad idea. I'm not sure when a good time would be but if you would like, we can discuss together and maybe organize. I also disagree with the 1000 hours of community service requirement. I teach Sunday school at my church which is my way of "giving back". As the bill is written, the court determines the form/venue for community service which I think is a bit unfair. I will plan to write President Obama as well.
1000 hours
April 24, 2009, 10:18am (report abuse)That works out to almost 6 months of NO PAY or benefits. How the hell are we supposed to afford that after years of NO or LOW WAGE felon-jobs? Plus, YOU would have to pick up all the expenses and GAS and AUTO MAINTENANCE, TOLLS, etc in order to comply. HOW?? Not to mention how unfair it is on top of any restitution and/or fines we all had to pay. I do, however, appreciate the attempt at getting this thing going but the community service part needs to be negotiated away in committee.
Dave Allendair
April 25, 2009, 12:28am (report abuse)This is a good bill that needs to become law. It can only reduce recidivism.
jaime woodard
April 25, 2009, 11:27am (report abuse)Ok people this is Jaime Woodard 201-966-1251 jaimelwoodard@gmail.com from we deserve our lives back.com its clear that no one cares. What are we going to do? How can we make some noise? A march, a peaceful demonstration please contacts me we have to make the difference. We must let the powers that be notice us. I will do anything for our community within the arms of the law. We don’t need anyone getting arrested but my site and hundreds of sites is not enough. I’m ready are you?
TomJenkins
April 25, 2009, 5:34pm (report abuse)I'm willing to do whatever I possibly can. Travel could be a little difficult - but if we put something together -
i'm in.
The USA sucks...
April 25, 2009, 6:59pm (report abuse)Why not just learn Mandarin and throw in with the Chinese? The American capitalists don't want us back into their program -- so screw 'em. Take all your hard work and inventions and work for someone else. This country blows. After this meltdown, ain't it obvious? Do YOU still 'pledge allegiance' to this squat-hole of a country? Why? It doesn't give a rats-ass about you!!
Think about it...
April 25, 2009, 7:03pm (report abuse)This country will legalize 12mil illegal immigrants, who've stolen identification and crossed the border illegally, before they give YOU YOUR lives back!!! Is that right? They're thinking more about the poor Mexicans than YOU my friend!!
Ray-ma NY
April 25, 2009, 7:04pm (report abuse)To Wanting another chance,1000 hours,jaime woodward. It's very important to be seen and demonstrate when the Judiciary Committee is in session. Now, if the Judiciary Committee and the full House of Representatives and/or the U.S. Senate are also in session that would be great.
Otherwise, we may have to make another trip with visible banners like "I want my Rights Back", "Clear my Records as States do", " Give us another Chance", "Stop Federal Tyranny" and the like.
Any suggestion is good.
Perhaps,those within a reasonable distance to Washington,D.C. will have to make this effort. One day will be enough for the time being while we see the results of press coverage and that of our politicians.
We have to shake this unfair system upside down and up again and without street activism we may get nothing accomplished as usual.
As we figure out the next step,keep writing to President Obama and Congressman John Conyers.
John Conyers is holding this bill back. Shame on him.
To Jaime
April 25, 2009, 7:06pm (report abuse)Why don't you see the man himself, Charlie Rangel, promote this alot more than he is? Because all he is doing is putting this bill out there to pacify his Harlem base and show them he's trying to do something about it when, in reality, he ain't doing no where near the amount he needs in order to get this bill a serious chance. Sorry, just my .02 worth.
logical
April 25, 2009, 10:11pm (report abuse)What makes any politician work for a bill or budget item or for anything? Public support? Maybe - if the politician thinks that it will affect his/her re-election chances or fundraising ability. Street activism, like what Ray-ma suggested could help - if they recognize that will vote based upon this issue.
logical
April 25, 2009, 10:12pm (report abuse)edit-
if they recognize that WE will vote based upon the issue.
Ray-ma NY
April 26, 2009, 10:27am (report abuse)I was the one who asked Congressman Charles Rangel to do something about this issue on the Federal Level as there was no hope for the millions convicted or who just plead guilt or no contest to non-violent federal charges.
Congresman Rangel is well loved and people will continue to vote for him no matter what. His office is just a few blocks from where I live in New York City.
He knows that this is e very important issues affecting no only people in his district but the entire country but the fact that it has not been considered by the House Judiciary Committee is not his fault.
I don't know why John Conyers,who is Chairman of the Judiciary Committee doesn't allow a vote on it and pass it to the full Congress for debate.
This is why I wrote a letter to President Obama asking him to intervene because such punitive and inhumane Federal Felony Statutes should not exist in a Republic.
Let's wait and see what comes out of my letter to the President. Please write to him.
logical
April 26, 2009, 1:32pm (report abuse)Thanks Ray-ma. That's the kind of tangible action that can finally get things moving. Is there something I could do?
Ray-ma NY
April 26, 2009, 2:51pm (report abuse)logical, as you know, this renamed bill has just been introduced to the Judiciary Committee for consideration.
You also know that I wrote a long letter to President Obama and I've addressed it to the "Executive Office".
For security reasons it may take some time for the federal screeners to allow my letter to be read by the White House's people in charge of constituents affairs and then hopefully,I've requested,brief the President on the subject.
I will keep writing to President Obama. Although,I'm in general a conservative person, I'm also liberal in areas were it's not the government business to limit what we want to do as long as our actions don't harm anybody. You got the idea.
So, we need a little time but I strongly encourage all of you and others I come in contact with to write to,not only President Obama, but to Congressman John Conyers at the House Judiciary Committee's address.
I will try to find John Conyers home address if I can.
Wanting another chance
April 26, 2009, 3:21pm (report abuse)To Ray-ma, I will write President Obama as well as John Conyers and the Attorney General Eric Holder. I believe what you mentioned in your previous post would be very beneficial-a peaceful demonstration. I live in GA(orginally from the Bronx)but I am up for the commuute. Is there a way to see when the members of the committee meet again so we can plan our march at that time?
Ray-ma NY
April 26, 2009, 3:55pm (report abuse)Wanting another chance, you must understand that this must be a well organized effort by as many people as possible when it will finally be done.
WashingtonWatch.com is doing a really a good service for providing a forum for unity and plan for action and I'm thankful, very thankful.
The fact is that many don't know, I should say millions are not aware of this website and write here and there looking for answers instead of concentrating on a blog like this for not only writing but planning.
I'm going to look for the other posters and make aware of this blog and make up plans for a demonstration in Washington,D.C.
My answer is to first come together and be certain of a fixed number of participants then we'll take care of when the Judiciary Committee and Congress are in session and will raise some legal Hell. I also would like to know what Charles Benninghoff of rehabilitated.org is up to. He now wants a "Certificate of Rehabilitation" from Congress but I feel expungement is better.
To Ray-Ma about Charles
April 26, 2009, 6:30pm (report abuse)Ray, for some reason, CB is backing his own idea with a Certificate of Rehab which, he claims, should already be provided for and should be easier for the Justice system to provide than a bill through Congress (like hr 1529). Factually, a COR, though perhaps easier to get through, provides no where near the relief that expungement provides in HR 1529. In 1529, an individual would be able to deny that they have been convicted of a felony at all; with a COR, one would have to respond with, "yes, but i have a COR". I believe that even acknowledging a prior felony conviction is all it takes to get black-balled on any job application (or any other application) as we are all experiencing today. Saying you've been 'rehabilited' ain't what i'm after. Matter of fact, once one has paid their price, they shouldn't even have to jump through any more hoops and be 'rehabed'. Give me a break from this punitive society.
Ray-ma NY
April 26, 2009, 7:04pm (report abuse)I agree with you about the Certificate of Rehabilitation that's why I don't understanding why Bennenghoff who has always supported the old HR 623 providing expungement, all of sudden is changing his mind.
The reality is that the Federal Government (Congress) has to protect our civil rights at least the same as most States do.
This has never been the case even though Congress would like people to believe that it exists to protect citizens from States oppression. What a lie!!!
The COR, or Certificate of Rehabilitation could be a minor consolation to many. It would allow convicted people to own firearms and would probably make it easier to obtain States professional licenses.
As for employment,you're correct, the record stands and would not make our lives any easier in terms of financial,job advancement. The next door prying eyes would be able to get a copy of it easily with subtle comments spread around.
I want Congress to pass this HR 1529 and restart with a clean slate.
Ray-ma NY
April 26, 2009, 7:32pm (report abuse)I would like to know where in the Federal Statutes Mr. Benninghoff sees anything about a path to obtain a Certificate of Rehabilitation. Only I know is that a decade ago I applied to the competent Federal Court for this COR and was told to apply for a Certificate of Relief from Criminal Disabilities through the State of New York.
I didn't see any benefit from it because it did not provide for the restoration of Federal Firearm Right and made little change in my life as I can vote, run for office, could also be a fireman had I being younger or get a city job here. Other States are not so advanced when it comes to civil rights, especially southern states.
We need Federal Relief, not States Relief.
I'm angry because this John Conyers who has fought for social justice all of his life is failing miserably on this vital legislation.
logical
April 26, 2009, 8:02pm (report abuse)Ray-ma - You're right. I didn't recognize right now, it looks like John Conyers is the hold-up. In the last session, the House Judiciary Committee sent 623 to the Subcommittee on Crime Terrorism & Homeland Security, where it then languished for the next two years. This time, it looks like there aren't even any co-sponsors. 623 had 17, and there were a lot more when the bill was initiated in 2005. It's getting put on a shelf for some reason. We need to remind these congresspeople that we are watching them.
Wanting another chance
April 26, 2009, 10:46pm (report abuse)Ray-ma,logical-I believe Charles Benninghoff backed off his support for this bill because he was tired of seeing it die session after session. He believes the COR would have a better chance of getting attention than this bill. But like both of you, I want a clean slate-so I would prefer this bill to pass. I don't want to have to disclose the fact that I have a federal conviction ever again. Also Ray-ma-what ways can we get the message out there to others who are in the same boat as we are?
Ray-ma NY
April 27, 2009, 11:35am (report abuse)logical and Wanting another chance. This bill, I believe it will have the same co-sponsors. It was just reintroduced, so we need some time then we go from there. Charles Rangel should have incorporated it with the other Second Chance bill which became law after it was signed by then President Bush. The fact remains that if we can move it from the Judiciary Committee to the full Congress for consideration then we have a really chance that it will be passed.
That's where the stamping block is, the House Judiciary Committee with John Conyers who instead of taking advantage of his authority is failing on every aspects.
Charles Benningoff,to his credit,means good but is misguided on this one as he is wasting time:
1-There is no federal statutory relief granting a Certificate of Rehabilitation on the books.
2-There is no Bill in Congress seeking to establish a procedure for obtaining one.
3-with all his contacts in Congress nothing has come out of it. We need HR.1529 passed.
logical
April 27, 2009, 12:11pm (report abuse)So we need to fax / write / call John Conyers, right? Should Jaime Woodard forward his petition to Mr. Conyers?
Wanting another chance
April 27, 2009, 1:58pm (report abuse)Logical, Ray-ma-I think having Jaime Woodard forward the signatures from the petition site would be a good idea and a start. I use to keep in touch with Charles Benninghoff but it appears that since he has lost interest in this bill he no longer corresponds with me. I wish there was a way to have all those who signed the petition site write, email or fax John Conyers.
Help for Love
April 27, 2009, 3:34pm (report abuse)This bill needs to be passed! Soon. The kids in the world today are given an opportunity to do right and follow the rules, and if they follow those rules until they are an adult and/or in college and by some consequence make one mistake. They end up paying for it for the rest of their lives and are never given the chance to be a respected citizen again. If everyone in the world wasn't given a second chance the first time they made a mistake, almost every kid in the US would have grown up a felon. Everyone deserves a second chance, especially if their a first-timer who made one simple mistake and never thought about how it would affect the rest of their life. Some people will not change after they "pay their dept to society" but they will end up back in there with no option of a second chance. Others CAN change and DO. One of which is myself. Please vote for this bill and give good, loyal citizens who deserve one, a second chance at their life.
roelnjojo@yahoo.com
April 27, 2009, 5:27pm (report abuse)I think this is a great idea to pass the second chance act. People mess up and do learn from mistakes .Others don't but there will always be law enforcement to take care of those who don't learn. Pass the bill.
Ray-ma NY
April 27, 2009, 7:31pm (report abuse)logical, yes, sending petitions to John Conyers and by the way other members of the Judiciary Committee is always a good thing to do.
Do you know how many thousands of letters we have sent them over the years? Cannot tell you for sure but boy,boy (and girls too) we sent thousands, maybe millions but those skunks didn't give a damn.
However, we have a Democratic Congress in power and a Democratic President. Bush did nothing other than pardoning a few of his political connected friends or friends of his friends and yes,yes he also pardoned a man who stole $19 of stamps in a Post Office!!! What a joke.
...and he called himself a "compassionate" man. A man who had blood on his hands since the time he was Governor of Texas when he could have commuted the death penalty especially in dubious cases but what did he say? "It's the law of the land!!!) Another tyrant.
Wanting another chance, yes Bennington is becoming a secondary figure in our fight. roeinjo, I agree with you.
Have Mercy2
April 27, 2009, 7:53pm (report abuse)Hi everyone! I'm re-posting: Contact every member (every day) of the House Judiciary Committee : John Conyers 202-225-5126, fax: 202-225-0072* Tammy Baldwin 202-225-2906, fax: 202-225-6942* Howard Berman 202-225-4695, fax: 202-225-3196 * Rick Boucher fax: 202-225-0442* Jason Chaffetz fax: 202-225-5629 * Howard Coble fax: 202-225-8611* Steve Cohen fax: 202-225-5663* Bill Delahunt fax: 202-225-5658 * Charles Gonzalez, fax: 202-225-1915* Luis Gutierrez, fax: 202-225-7810* Henry "Hank" Johnson fax: 202-226-0691* Sheila Jackson Lee fax: 202-225-3317* Dan Maffei fax: 202-225-4042* Jerrold Nadler fax: 202-225-6923* Linda Sanchez, fax: 202-226-1012* Adam B. Schiff fax: 202-225-5828* Bobby Scott fax:202-225-8354* F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. fax: (202) 225-3190* Brad Sherman fax: 202-225-5879 * Debbie Wasserman Schultz fax: 202-226-2052* Maxine Waters fax: 202-225-7854* Melvin L. Watt fax: 202-25-1512* Anthony D. Weiner fax: 202-226-7253
Ray-ma NY
April 27, 2009, 7:56pm (report abuse)The bottom line is the following: We want and demand the same treatment, the same rights which a person convicted under States law has.
States grant many post-conviction reliefs as Certificate of Rehabilitation, Certificate of Good Conduct, Certificate of Relief from Criminal Disabilities and Expungement for non-violent crimes and also for many violent crimes.
After the sentence, probation is over the "ex-convict" after awhile can have and will have by operation of law the right to possess firearms.
The federal government puts anyone with a federal conviction in jail for possessing a firearm (5 to 15 years) and offers NO relief.
This is the same Federal Government which supposedly protects the Civil Rights of the people and make sure that the States don't deprive citizens of them!!!
The States are now the de facto protectors of our Civil Rights and not the Federal Government, a bunch of 535 oppressors (minus some) have no right to to dominate 300 million of Americans.
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When a commenter uses the handle “BrokenHearted Dad,” you can’t help but care about his story. He doesn’t tell it, but for him we should all take a second look at H.R. 1529, The Second Chance for Ex-Offenders Act. Here’s t...