Bill
H 2050
H 2050: An Act Removing Barriers to Expungement of Records SummaryThis bill, titled "An Act Removing Barriers to the Expungement of Records," aims to make it easier for individuals
This bill, titled "An Act Removing Barriers to the Expungement of Records," aims to make it easier for individuals to have eligible criminal records expunged or sealed. The primary goal is to help remove obstacles that have historically prevented many people from successfully navigating the expungement process.
Expanded Eligibility: The bill would expand the types of criminal records eligible for expungement, including certain misdemeanors and non-violent felonies that meet specific criteria.
Automatic Expungement: For eligible offenses, the bill would require courts to automatically expunge records after a set period of time (typically 5-10 years) without requiring the individual to file a petition.
Fee Waivers: The legislation would eliminate the typical court fees associated with filing an expungement petition, making the process more accessible to low-income individuals.
Simplified Paperwork: The bill directs the state court system to develop standardized, easy-to-understand expungement petition forms to streamline the application process.
Notification Requirements: Courts would be required to notify individuals when their records have been successfully expunged and provide guidance on how to respond to questions about their criminal history.
If passed, this bill would primarily benefit individuals with eligible criminal records who have faced barriers to expungement in the past. By lowering the cost, complexity, and time required to clear one's record, the legislation aims to help these individuals more easily access employment, housing, and other opportunities.
The bill would also have implications for the court system, as it would increase the overall volume of expungement cases to be processed. However, the streamlined procedures and fee waivers are intended to make the process more efficient for the courts as well.
The bill is currently scheduled for a public hearing on September 9, 2025, where lawmakers and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide input and debate the proposed changes. If it advances through the legislative process, the new expungement procedures outlined in the bill would likely take effect within 6-12 months of the bill's final passage and enactment.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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