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HB 2447

Relating to the eligibility of criminal defendants for an order of nondisclosure of criminal history record information for certain offenses committed when younger than 25 years of age.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Joe Moody

HB 2447 allows criminal defendants who committed offenses before age 25 to petition for record sealing, expanding nondisclosure eligibility in Texas under broader circumstances.

Referred to Corrections
#criminalrecords(s0008) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208)
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Bill Summary · HB 2447

Legislative bill overview

HB 2447 expands eligibility for nondisclosure orders (sealing criminal records) to include defendants who committed certain offenses before age 25. Currently, Texas law restricts nondisclosure eligibility based on offense type and conviction status. This bill would allow younger offenders to petition for record sealing under broader circumstances than existing law permits.

Why is this important

Criminal record sealing affects employment, housing, education, and professional licensing opportunities. Expanding nondisclosure eligibility for young offenders could facilitate reintegration into society, though it also involves questions about public access to criminal history and victim considerations. The bill reflects ongoing policy debates about age, culpability, and second chances in the criminal justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Age-based eligibility: Whether age 25 is the appropriate threshold and whether it should apply retroactively to past convictions
  • Which offenses qualify: The specific offenses included or excluded from nondisclosure eligibility, particularly regarding violent or sexual crimes
  • Victim and public safety concerns: Whether record sealing adequately protects crime victims' interests and public transparency about criminal history
  • Implementation burden: Administrative costs and procedures for courts processing expanded nondisclosure petitions

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

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