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Bill

SB 3098

RELATING TO EXPUNGEMENT ORDERS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 3098 modifies Hawaii's expungement procedures to allow individuals to seal or erase criminal records, potentially expanding employment and housing opportunities while raising public safety access questions.

Referred to PSM, JDC.
#expungementorders #penalcode #violations
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Bill Summary · SB 3098

Legislative bill overview

SB 3098 relates to expungement orders in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available information. Expungement allows individuals to petition courts to seal or erase criminal records from public view. This bill likely modifies procedures, eligibility criteria, or processes related to how Hawaii handles expungement petitions.

Why is this important

Expungement policies directly affect hundreds of thousands of people with criminal records seeking employment, housing, professional licensing, and educational opportunities. Changes to expungement law can either expand second chances for rehabilitation or maintain barriers for public safety purposes. Hawaii's approach influences both individual reintegration prospects and employer/public access to criminal history information.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligible offenses: Whether serious crimes (violent felonies, sex offenses) should be eligible for expungement versus only minor offenses
  • Timing and waiting periods: How long individuals must wait after conviction/completion of sentence before petitioning, balancing rehabilitation against public safety concerns
  • Cost and access: Whether filing fees and legal requirements create barriers for low-income individuals seeking expungement

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

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