WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 970

Criminal procedure: expunction; procedures and eligibility for the expungement of certain records; provide for. Amends secs. 1b, 1c, 1d, 2 & 3 of 1965 PA 213 (MCL 780.621b et seq.); adds sec. 1j & repeals sec. 4 of 1965 PA 213 (MCL 780.624).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Stephanie Chang and 7 co-sponsors

Michigan expands criminal record expungement eligibility and procedures to help individuals clear certain convictions from their records, improving employment and housing access.

referred to Committee on Government Operations
#criminalprocedure:expunction
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 970

Legislative bill overview

SB 970 expands Michigan's criminal record expungement procedures by amending the 1965 Public Act 213, making it easier for individuals to have certain criminal convictions removed from their records. The bill modifies eligibility requirements and procedures while repealing previous restrictions on expungement access.

Why is this important

Criminal records create significant barriers to employment, housing, education, and professional licensing even after sentences are completed. Broadening expungement eligibility allows individuals to rebuild their lives and reduces recidivism by improving economic opportunity, while also addressing racial disparities in criminal justice outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim and public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that expanding record expungement compromises victims' access to criminal histories and public safety by obscuring information about repeat offenders or serious crimes
  • Law enforcement implications: Police and prosecutors may face operational challenges if background records are restricted, potentially affecting case investigations or threat assessments
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's specific eligibility criteria are not detailed in this summary—unclear which crimes qualify for expungement could generate debate about whether violent felonies, sexual offenses, or drug crimes should be included

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

Sign in to ask a question.