Next City
This Technology Has Cleared 140,000 Marijuana-Related Convictions So Far
December 22, 2021 · 40 min
Why listen
An algorithm has already cleared 140,000 marijuana convictions, and more cities could use it today.
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In this episode
- How automated record clearing actually works in practice
- Why old marijuana convictions still block jobs and housing
- Which cities and states have adopted this technology so far
- What it would take for more governments to put it to use
About this episode
Having a criminal record stops plenty of people from getting their next job — even if they have a marijuana-related conviction, and even if what was once illegal in their state is now perfectly fine. But there is an algorithm for that, if only cities and states would use it to clear the records of thousands of people.This episode is sponsored by:
Next City Newsletter - Signing up for our newsletters is the best way to stay informed on the issues that matter. To subscribe now, head to nextcity.org/newsletter and enter your email address.
Solutions of the Year, an 80-page print magazine exploring solutions for poverty, climate change, homelessness, and much more. To subscribe now, head to nextcity.org/donate and make a donation of any size.
About Next City
Join Lucas Grindley, executive director at Next City, where we believe journalists have the power to amplify solutions and spread workable ideas. Each week Lucas will sit down with trailblazers to discuss urban issues that get overlooked.
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