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SB 483

Criminal Procedure - Automated Expungement (Clean Slate Act of 2026)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sara Love and 5 co-sponsors

Maryland's Clean Slate Act automatically seals eligible criminal records without requiring court petitions, removing barriers to employment and housing post-conviction.

Hearing 2/17 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 483

Legislative bill overview

SB 483, Maryland's Clean Slate Act of 2026, establishes an automated expungement system that allows eligible individuals to have criminal records sealed without requiring a separate petition to the court. The bill aims to streamline the expungement process by automatically removing records for certain convictions after specified waiting periods, making it easier for people to access employment, housing, and other opportunities post-conviction.

Why is this important

Criminal records create persistent barriers to employment, housing, and social reintegration even after sentences are completed. Automating expungement removes procedural obstacles that prevent eligible individuals from accessing record relief, potentially reducing recidivism and supporting workforce participation. This addresses both individual rehabilitation prospects and systemic efficiency in the courts.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligible crimes: Disputes may arise over which conviction types qualify for automatic expungement, with law enforcement and prosecutors potentially opposing broader eligibility while criminal justice reform advocates push for inclusion of more serious offenses
  • Public safety concerns: Critics may argue that automatic removal of records without individual court review could prevent law enforcement access to relevant criminal history, though proponents counter that convictions remain in official records and only public accessibility changes
  • Timing and waiting periods: Disagreement likely exists over how long individuals must wait before automatic expungement triggers, balancing rehabilitation goals against concerns about victim protection and community safety

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

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