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Abstract

Collateral consequences act as additional civil punishments imposed on criminal offenders after completing the terms of their sentences. Collateral consequences prevent individuals with criminal records from voting, accessing government housing and assistance, obtaining gainful employment, fully participating in civic duties, and wholly reintegrating into society. Furthermore, extensive research suggests that collateral consequences increase recidivism and have no real relation to public safety. This note explores the history of collateral consequences that impact voting and employment, examines efforts at both the state and federal level to limit those impacts, and offers suggestions for reforms that would go a step further.

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