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SB 1515

Relating to the expunction of all records and files related to arrests for certain decriminalized misdemeanor offenses.

89th Legislature (2025)

SB 1515 allows Texans to permanently erase arrest records for offenses that have been decriminalized, removing barriers to employment and opportunity for affected individuals.

Referred to Criminal Justice
#criminalrecords(s0008) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #deferredadjudication(s6185) #expunctionofrecords(s0189) #mandatory&communitysupervision(s2314) #recordsmanagement(s0205)
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Bill Summary · SB 1515

Legislative bill overview

SB 1515 would allow individuals to expunge (permanently erase) all records and files related to arrests for certain misdemeanor offenses that have been decriminalized in Texas. This applies retroactively, meaning people previously arrested for conduct that is no longer criminal could petition to have those records removed from public access.

Why is this important

Arrest records significantly impact employment, housing, education, and professional licensing opportunities even when charges are dropped or dismissed. Expunction of decriminalized offenses acknowledges that conduct deemed no longer criminal shouldn't carry permanent legal consequences, and helps individuals reintegrate into society without the collateral damage of historical arrest records.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope definition: Disagreement over which misdemeanors qualify as "decriminalized" and whether this creates retroactive inequities (why some but not all misdemeanors?)
  • Public safety concerns: Law enforcement and victim advocates may argue that expungement removes records useful for background checks, pattern identification, and situational awareness
  • Implementation costs: District attorneys and law enforcement agencies face administrative burden and expense in locating, reviewing, and expunging potentially thousands of historical records
  • Decriminalization pace: The bill's applicability depends on Texas legislative decisions to decriminalize offenses, making its impact uncertain without knowing which specific crimes are targeted

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

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