T.O.N.E. U.P.
Minnesota’s Clean Slate Law
For many Minnesotans, a past conviction—no matter how long ago—can still be a major barrier to employment, housing, education, and even professional licenses. The Clean Slate Law is designed to change that.
At T.O.N.E.U.P., we believe in second chances and building new paths forward. That’s why we help justice-impacted individuals navigate Minnesota’s Clean Slate Law through our Liberation of Leaders Fellowship—a holistic, supportive program designed to address the full spectrum of reentry needs, not just record expungement.
What is Minnesota’s Clean Slate Law?
Minnesota’s Clean Slate Law, passed in 2023. It allows for the automatic expungement of certain criminal records. This means that qualifying individuals may have their records sealed without needing to file a petition with the court.
The law recognizes that people deserve the opportunity to move on from past mistakes—and that old convictions shouldn’t define someone’s future.
However, not everyone is eligible for automatic expungement, and the rollout of this law is still in progress. That’s where we come in.
How We Can Help
Our Liberation of Leaders Fellowship is the primary pathway to receiving record expungement support from T.O.N.E. U.P. Through this fellowship, we walk alongside our participants—not only to help them clear their records, but to support every step of their reentry journey, including:
Navigating employment and fair chance hiring opportunities
Securing stable housing
Reclaiming IDs, licenses, and voter registration
Receiving mentorship and coaching
Rebuilding confidence, purpose, and long-term stability
We don’t believe in one-off help—we believe in lifelong transformation.
Clean Slate Law FAQs
Q: How do I know if I’m eligible for automatic expungement?
A: Eligibility depends on the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether you’ve remained conviction-free since. Records like certain misdemeanors and non-violent felonies may qualify. We use state-provided guidance to help determine eligibility and can walk you through it.
Q: Do I have to do anything to have my record expunged?
A: If you qualify for automatic expungement, the state will seal your record over time without you needing to file a petition. However, some cases may require additional steps, and expungement is not guaranteed without confirmation. That’s why it’s important to connect with an advocate.
Q: Can T.O.N.E. U.P. help even if I’m not eligible for automatic expungement?
A: Yes. We work with participants on both automatic and petition-based expungement. Our team provides education, guidance, and referrals for legal assistance if needed. See the automatic Expungement criteria below. 👇
Q: Why is my record still showing up on the BCA website?
A: The Clean Slate Law is being implemented in phases. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is actively updating records, but delays are expected. We can help you understand your timeline and next steps.
Automatic Expungement Eligibility
The offense is included under this bill
No new convictions or pending charges with the exception of petty misdemeanors during the waiting periods or during review periods.
Successful discharge of sentence
Completion of waiting periods
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2 year waiting period from discharge of sentence.
Most petty Misdemeanors are eligible. *
*Exceptions: Traffic Violations
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2 year waiting period from discharge of sentence.
Most Misdemeanors with some exceptions
Exceptions:
4th degree DWI.
Violation of an order for protection.
5th degree assault.
Domestic assault.
Violation of harassment or restraining order.
Interference with emergency call.
Obscene or harassing phone calls.
Indecent exposure.
Interference with privacy.
Violation of a domestic abuse no contact order.
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There is a 3-year waiting period from discharge of sentence.
Many GROSS MISDEMEANORS with some exceptions.
Exceptions:
2nd & 3rd degree DWI.
Violation of an order for protection.
Criminal vehicular operation.
4th & 5th degree assault.
Domestic assault.
Criminal neglect.
5th degree criminal sexual conduct.
Malicious punishment of a child.
Escape from custody.
Tampering with a witness.
4th degree burglary.
Interference with privacy.
Violation of a harassment restraining order.
Harassment/stalking.
Interference with an emergency call.
Indecent exposure
Nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images.
Violation of a domestic abuse no contact order.
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View the MN Clean Slate Law Felony Eligibility Guidelines to the right. 👉
Are you ready to reclaim your future?
T.O.N.E. U.P. is here to support you—but we go beyond expungement. Through our fellowship, you’ll gain access to a supportive community, expert guidance, and resources that help you thrive.
Start by completing the interest form below 👇. A member of our team will reach out to you directly to explore how we can help you clear your record, become a fellow, and take the next step toward your goals.
About the Fellowship
The Liberation of Leaders Fellowship is T.O.N.E.U.P.’s signature re-entry and leadership program for justice-impacted individuals. It’s designed for those who want more than just a cleared record—they want a new beginning.
As a fellow, you’ll receive:
One-on-one guidance on expungement and legal support
Personalized re-entry planning focused on housing, employment, and ID recovery
Opportunities for advocacy and civic engagement through our From the Block to the Ballot initiative
Access to mentorship, wellness coaching, and a supportive community
Pathways to leadership and professional development
The Clean Slate Law may help seal your record—but our fellowship helps you reclaim your life.
Hear From Our Community
“They got me into housing, helped me get a state ID, and made me feel like I belonged again. That’s not just a service—that’s family.”
“T.O.N.E. U.P. helped me get my CDL license and turn my life around. Now I’m working full-time and mentoring others.”
“Without T.O.N.E. U.P., I wouldn’t have been able to get to work. They repaired my car and reminded me that my story wasn’t over.”
