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HB 2530

An Act amending Title 44 (Law and Justice) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in DNA data and testing, further providing for expungement.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Ciresi and 6 co-sponsors

HB 2530 creates clearer rules to expunge certain DNA records, defining eligibility, process, and timelines to remove data from state databases while protecting privacy.

Referred to Judiciary
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2530

Bill Summary: HB 2530 (Pennsylvania) – 2025-2026 Session

Purpose and Intent

  • HB 2530 amends Title 44 (Law and Justice) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically addressing DNA data and testing with a focus on expungement.
  • The bill seeks to modify the rules governing expungement of DNA records, clarifying eligibility, process, and timelines to remove certain DNA-related information from state databases or records.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Expungement Process: Establishes or revises the procedures by which individuals may petition for expungement of DNA data or DNA-associated records. This likely includes criteria for eligibility, timing, and required documentation.
  • Eligibility Standards: Specifies who may qualify for expungement (e.g., individuals not convicted of crimes tied to the DNA record, certain types of cases, or cases where charges were dismissed or acquitted). May address limitations based on nature of offense or retention requirements.
  • Scope of Expungement: Delineates which DNA-related records are subject to expungement (e.g., DNA profiles, test results, or related investigative data) and what constitutes “expungement” (complete deletion versus de-identification or sealing).
  • Retention and Access: Sets rules for how expunged records are handled to ensure that data is no longer accessible for law enforcement or other entities, while preserving any legally required retention for public safety needs or historical records.
  • Notice and Hearing: Outlines notice requirements to involved parties and any right to hearings or administrative review as part of the expungement decision.
  • Administrative Framework: Provides the procedural steps, timelines, and responsible agencies for processing expungement requests, including potential appeals or remedies if a request is denied.
  • Protections and Limitations: Addresses privacy protections, data security measures, and any limitations on future use of expunged DNA information.

Who Would be Affected

  • Individuals with DNA records within the Pennsylvania DNA data and testing system who may seek expungement under the amended provisions.
  • Law enforcement agencies, the Pennsylvania State Police, and any other state agencies handling DNA data would be obligated to follow the updated expungement procedures.
  • Courts or administrative bodies responsible for reviewing expungement petitions and issuing determinations.
  • Public safety and criminal justice stakeholders who rely on DNA databases for ongoing investigations, subject to the new expungement rules.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • The bill would establish timelines for filing expungement petitions, responses from agencies, and final determinations.
  • It may specify effective dates for when the new expungement provisions apply (e.g., upon enactment or a future regulatory phase-in).
  • The bill could include transitional provisions to govern expungement of records created prior to the effective date.

Potential Impact and Implications

  • Increased privacy protections for individuals with DNA records by enabling removal of certain data from state databases.
  • Clarified and potentially streamlined pathways for obtaining expungement, reducing ambiguity for applicants.
  • Possible implications for law enforcement and investigative capabilities, balanced by privacy safeguards and judicial review.
  • Administrative and cost considerations for agencies tasked with implementing the new expungement processes.

Notes

  • The summary reflects the stated focus on expungement within DNA data and testing and is based on the bill’s title and related sections within Title 44. For precise language, including exact eligibility criteria, procedural steps, and affected data types, the bill’s full text and fiscal notes should be consulted once publicly released.

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

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