WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 397

Criminal Procedure - Expungement - Failure to Obey a Court Order to Report to Confinement

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Robin Grammer

HB 397 allows people convicted of failing to obey court-ordered confinement to expunge their criminal records, removing barriers to employment and housing after serving sentences.

Hearing 3/03 at 1:00 p.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 397

Legislative bill overview

HB 397 would allow individuals to petition for expungement of criminal records related to charges of failure to obey a court order to report to confinement. The bill creates a pathway for people convicted or charged with this specific offense to have their records sealed or erased, potentially enabling them to legally deny the offense occurred in most circumstances.

Why is this important

Expungement has significant real-world consequences for employment, housing, professional licensing, and educational opportunities. This bill addresses a specific category of non-violent offenses where individuals failed to comply with court-ordered confinement, which may allow them to move forward without the permanent stigma of a criminal record while potentially reducing collateral consequences of incarceration.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility: Questions about whether this should apply to all such failures or only first-time offenders, and what time periods or conditions should apply
  • Public safety concerns: Whether expunging records of people who previously defied court orders creates gaps in information for law enforcement, employers, or background check systems
  • Equity vs. accountability: Balancing rehabilitation and second chances against concerns that some may view this as insufficient accountability for deliberate non-compliance with court directives

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

Sign in to ask a question.