Tag: non-violent offenses

Missouri Legislators Propose Bill to Automate Expungement of Non-Violent Offenses Two Missouri state legislators have pre-filed legislation to automate the expungement process for certain offenses. This legislation could benefit more than half a million Missourians who have not taken advantage of the state’s current expungement process. This legislation, House Bill 352, would expand on the state’s existing expungement law. This law recently got a significant update in 2018 and added almost 2,000 offenses to the list of offenses available for expunging. However, despite this major expansion, lawmakers have indicated that few individuals with a criminal record have taken advantage of these changes. According to the bill’s sponsors, Rep. Phil Christofanelli and Senator-elect Curtis Trent, less than 1% of those eligible to clear their record have taken advantage of the process. Christofanelli also mentioned that one of the most notable reasons few take advantage of this process is the current requirement for a court petition. In addition to the petition, the petitioner must invest considerable time and money, which often adds up to several thousand dollars. This new bill would automate the process for many of the crimes qualifying for expungement under the Clean Slate legislation. It will include misdemeanors, which become eligible for automatic expungement after three years, and felonies which become eligible after five. However, to qualify, the individuals must not get involved in offenses related to sex or violence. For a quicker expungement, qualifying individuals can use the current petition process to clear misdemeanors after a period of one year and felonies after a period of three years. Under the legislation, the state database would record offenses eligible for expungement. Judges and parole officers would inform qualified individuals at sentencing about their eligibility for expungement. Courts would then issue an omnibus order that would seal these records. Offenders can check and ensure that these offenses become expunged through a web portal that the state would make available. However, Christofanelli warned the public about the necessary two-year period before the bill can take effect. This time will allow the state to create a new program for this automation. On August 28th, 2025, the office of the state courts administrator would begin identifying all eligible charges and convictions monthly. Currently, individuals become eligible for expungement of one felony and two misdemeanors. However, this proposal would increase the limit to three felonies and five misdemeanors. This measure could significantly impact the employment, housing, and education opportunities of over an estimated 500,000 Missourians to qualify for automatic expungement under this legislation. For the time being, employers and other users of background checks should work with a trusted screening provider. The right provider will ensure that they do not disqualify individuals needlessly based on the results of a criminal records check. Background checks are made easy with Pre-employ. Ask any questions you may have and learn more by contacting a sales rep today. Source

Tag: non-violent offenses

Missouri Legislators Propose Bill to Automate Expungement of Non-Violent Offenses

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