This bill amends and reenacts certain articles of the Code of Criminal Procedure to facilitate the expungement of arrest records for specific individuals. It introduces the term "expedited expungement," which allows a judge to sign an expungement order without the individual needing to file a motion with the clerk of court. The bill outlines the criteria for individuals eligible for expedited expungement, including being 17 years old at the time of arrest, having the district attorney decline prosecution, and having any proceedings related to the arrest dismissed or quashed. Additionally, it establishes that individuals who successfully complete a juvenile drug court program and those eligible for expedited expungement are exempt from processing fees.
The bill also enacts new articles that provide a standardized order form for expedited expungement, detailing the necessary information and conditions for the expungement to be granted. It clarifies that the expedited expungement process does not apply to any misdemeanor or felony convictions arising from the same incident. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the expungement process, reduce barriers for eligible individuals, and enhance access to justice for those with arrest records.