A second chance often marks the turning point in a success story.
Gov. Jay Nixon last week signed legislation that gives criminal offenders a second chance to turn their lives around. The bill would seal criminal records for certain offenders who complete their sentences and avoid future convictions.
The legislation is consistent with the mission of the criminal justice system, which is designed to do much more than confine offenders.
Alternatives to incarceration include probation, community service and restitution. Specialty courts consider recovery options for drug and alcohol offenses. And prisons offer restorative justice programs, as well as education and vocational opportunities.
Incarceration limits individual freedom and imposes costs on taxpayers. In contrast, productive citizens contribute to society.
In this forum on June 15, we quoted Michael Barrett, who leads the Missouri Public Defender System. Barrett called unemployment the primary factor driving repeat criminal offenses and said: "I can't think of a single initiative that will do more to improve public safety, help the economy and reduce the reliance on public benefits."
Although the new law will provide second chances, it requires adherence to strict guidelines and conditions.
First, criminal records are not expunged, they are sealed from public view. Law enforcement officials will retain access to criminal histories.
Second, some offenders are not eligible. Records of convictions for dangerous felonies, sex offenses and other violent crimes may not be sealed.
Finally, waiting periods are imposed for offenders who are eligible. Convicted felons must wait seven years before eligibility and misdemeanor offenders must wait three years.
In signing the bill, Nixon called the measure a "reasonable, balanced approach." He said: "Missourians who have paid their debt to society and become law-abiding citizens deserve a chance to get a job and support their families."
We agree.
People make mistakes, and the punishment must fit the crime.
When an offender decides to go straight and proves it, however, punishment must not to continue to cast a dark shadow that obstructs personal success or societal benefit.