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HB 2708

Relating to the eligibility of certain criminal defendants for an order of nondisclosure of criminal history record information.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Alma Allen

HB 2708 expands Texas eligibility for criminal record nondisclosure orders, allowing more defendants to seal histories from public access and reduce collateral consequences.

Left pending in committee
#criminalrecords(s0008) #corrections--parole #probation&pardons(i0093) #criminalprocedure--posttrialprocedure(i0206) #mandatory&communitysupervision(s2314)
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Bill Summary · HB 2708

Legislative bill overview

HB 2708 expands eligibility for nondisclosure orders (often called "expungement") in Texas, allowing certain criminal defendants to have their criminal history records sealed from public view. The bill modifies who qualifies for this relief, potentially broadening access beyond current law. This addresses how criminal records affect employment, housing, and reintegration opportunities after conviction or arrest.

Why is this important

Criminal records create lasting collateral consequences that can prevent people from obtaining jobs, housing, professional licenses, and education—even after they've served their sentences. Nondisclosure orders help remove these barriers by hiding records from most public and private background checks. Expanding eligibility could affect thousands of Texans' ability to rebuild their lives, though it also raises questions about public safety transparency and employer access to relevant background information.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety vs. rehabilitation: Opponents may argue that sealing records hides relevant information from employers, landlords, and the public, while supporters contend that rehabilitation should enable fresh starts
  • Scope of eligibility: Disagreement likely exists over which crimes or defendant categories should qualify—violent felonies versus nonviolent offenses, dismissals versus convictions
  • Implementation costs: Expanding nondisclosure orders requires court and administrative resources; fiscal impact and funding mechanisms may be disputed

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

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