WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 7820

AN ACT RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURE -- EXPUNGEMENT OF CRIMINAL RECORDS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Charlene Lima

HB 7820 expands Rhode Island criminal record expungement eligibility, allowing more individuals to seal conviction records and improve reintegration prospects while raising public safety disclosure questions.

04/03/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (04/09/2026)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 7820

Legislative bill overview

HB 7820 modifies Rhode Island's criminal record expungement procedures, expanding eligibility for individuals to have their criminal records sealed or removed from public access. The bill was introduced in February 2026 and referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration.

Why is this important

Criminal record expungement directly affects employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities for individuals with prior convictions. Broader expungement eligibility can reduce recidivism by facilitating reintegration into society, though it must balance public safety concerns and victim protections with rehabilitation goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility: Disagreement over which offense categories (violent crimes, drug offenses, etc.) should qualify for expungement and waiting periods required before application
  • Public safety and victim considerations: Concerns that expanded expungement limits transparency for employers, landlords, and the public regarding criminal history
  • Implementation costs: Law enforcement and court system resource demands for processing expanded expungement petitions and maintaining sealed records

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

Sign in to ask a question.