Advocates are urging state lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 290, which would automate the expungement process for certain misdemeanor and felony convictions in Kentucky.
Brittanie Bogard knows firsthand how a criminal record can follow someone long after they try to rebuild their life. Her involvement with the justice system began in childhood and continued into adulthood.
“I accumulated 45 charges as an adult,” Bogard said.
“I spent years in detention centers, group homes, and being incarcerated,” she added.
When Bogard started working to change her life, her record became a barrier to getting an education, housing, and employment.
“It took me almost seven to eight years to get my life cleaned up from my charges. I had to go through the expungement process through Goodwill three times. Then, I received a pardon from Gov. Andy Beshear,” Bogard said.
That pardon transformed Bogard’s life and gave her the opportunity to run for city council in Hopkinsville.
“I’m the first formerly justice involved elected official in the state of Kentucky. I’ve opened a door for people that hasn’t ever been open,” Bogard said.
Bogard believes other Kentuckians deserve the same opportunity and is calling on lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 290.
Known as the Automated Expungement Act, the bill would establish an automated expungement process in Kentucky for certain misdemeanors and felonies. This means those charges would be completely removed from a person’s record and would not appear in background checks.
The bill’s sponsor said the legislation focuses on giving people a fair opportunity for a second chance.
“It’s all about workforce, trying to get people back on their feet. They’ve paid their dues to society. I’m all about second chances,” Sen. Brandon Storm said.
“This gives families hope and that’s what we need. Kentucky needs hope,” Bogard said.
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