provide incentives to non-violent criminals to not re-offend, by restricting release of records after period of time

Incentivising good behavior could help curb repeat criminal offenses. Those with only one non-violent misdemeanor non-violent (e.g. simple drug possession, DUI) have to live with a criminal record, in most cases, for the rest of their lives.This effects ability to secure employment, obtain loans, enroll in school and much more. With such diminished life prospects many resort to a life of crime. The federal government could restrict access to criminal records to law enforcement agencies and courts after minor offenders complete a probationary period without committing further criminal offenses. Other western countries such as Canada and the UK have such programs for those with minor criminal records after 5-10 year periods. Those incentives succeed in reducing the number of repeat offenders