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HF 669

A bill for an act relating to the expungement of certain criminal history records of victims of human trafficking, and including penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Thompson

Bill allows human trafficking victims to expunge criminal records from crimes committed while trafficked, removing barriers to employment and housing for survivors.

Withdrawn.
#criminalhistory #expungement #humantrafficking #victims
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Bill Summary · HF 669

Legislative bill overview

HF 669 would allow victims of human trafficking to expunge (erase from public records) their criminal history records related to crimes they committed while being trafficked. The bill treats trafficking victims' criminal conduct as a consequence of exploitation rather than autonomous wrongdoing, enabling them to clear records that might otherwise impede their reintegration into society.

Why is this important

Human trafficking survivors often have criminal records for activities (prostitution, theft, drug offenses) they were coerced into committing by traffickers. These records create barriers to employment, housing, and services needed for recovery. Expungement recognizes the exploitative context and removes stigma that perpetuates cycles of vulnerability and poverty among survivors.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim identification standards: Determining who qualifies as a trafficking victim and what evidence is required could be administratively complex and potentially subject to abuse if standards are too loose or too restrictive
  • Public safety concerns: Some may argue that expunging records limits law enforcement access to criminal histories, though records would still exist in law enforcement databases
  • Scope of eligible crimes: Questions about which offenses should be expungeable (violent crimes versus property crimes, for example) and whether there should be limits based on severity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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