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Bill

SB 374

Civil procedure: evictions; court records of summary proceedings; provide for the sealing and expungement of. Amends 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.101 - 600.9947) by adding sec. 5755.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 4 co-sponsors

Michigan bill permits sealing or expunging eviction case records to reduce housing and employment barriers for tenants after proceedings conclude.

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Bill Summary · SB 374

Legislative bill overview

SB 374 adds provisions to Michigan's civil procedure law that allow for the sealing and expungement of court records related to summary eviction proceedings. The bill creates a mechanism for tenants to remove or restrict access to eviction case records under specified circumstances, modifying how these documents are retained and disclosed in the judicial system.

Why is this important

Eviction records can create significant barriers to future housing, employment, and credit opportunities, even when cases are dismissed or resolved favorably for tenants. By allowing record sealing or expungement, the bill addresses collateral consequences that can trap individuals and families in cycles of housing instability and economic disadvantage long after legal proceedings conclude.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility: Unclear which outcomes (dismissals, settlements, landlord withdrawals, judgment for tenant) qualify for sealing/expungement, potentially creating inequitable access depending on case disposition
  • Landlord concerns: Property owners may argue that sealed records limit their ability to screen tenants and assess rental history, potentially increasing risk or affecting underwriting decisions
  • Implementation costs: Courts and record-keeping systems require resources to manage sealed records procedures, raising questions about funding and administrative burden on judiciary

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

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