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HB 835

Expunction - As introduced, shortens the length of time that a petitioner must wait before having an eligible Class D felony expunged from 10 years after the completion of the sentence imposed for the offense the petitioner is seeking to have expunged, to eight years from completion. - Amends TCA Title 40, Chapter 32.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kelly Keisling

Tennessee bill reduces Class D felony expungement waiting period from 10 to 8 years post-sentence, enabling faster criminal record sealing for eligible offenders.

Reset on Final cal. of Criminal Justice Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 835

Legislative bill overview

HB 835 reduces the waiting period for expunging Class D felonies in Tennessee from 10 years to 8 years after sentence completion. This applies only to eligible offenders who have completed their sentences and met other statutory requirements for record expungement.

Why is this important

Expungement allows individuals to petition courts to seal criminal records, improving employment, housing, and educational opportunities after serving their sentences. Shortening the waiting period could help individuals reintegrate into society sooner, though it affects a relatively narrow category (Class D felonies only, which are lower-level felonies).

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Critics may argue that reducing waiting periods limits the time criminal records remain accessible to employers, landlords, and background check services, potentially affecting risk assessment decisions
  • Scope limitation: The bill only addresses Class D felonies; stakeholders may debate whether other felony classes deserve similar consideration or whether this creates inconsistency in expungement timelines
  • Implementation costs: Courts and record-keeping agencies may face administrative burdens in processing increased expungement petitions if the shorter timeline significantly increases petition volume

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

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