HB279:

Criminal records; sealing of records by petition, criteria.

Bill Summary:

Criminal records; sealing of records by petition;
criteria. Removes the requirement that a petitioner has not
previously obtained the sealing of two other deferrals or convictions
arising out of different sentencing events from the criteria that
must be met for the court to enter an order requiring the sealing
of the criminal history record information and court records related
to certain convictions or charges that have been deferred or dismissed.
The bill also adds convictions for driving on a suspended license
and driving without a valid license to the list of convictions eligible
for automatic sealing. Currently, such offenses are eligible for
sealing upon petition. Also, for sealing of misdemeanor offenses
by petition, the bill reduces from seven years to five years the
period for which the person shall not have been convicted of any
offense in order to be eligible for such sealing. The bill also specifies
that the sealing of records related to a conviction includes the
sealing of any criminal history record information and court records
related to any violation of the terms and conditions of a suspended
sentence or probation for such conviction.