This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically section 609A.03, to provide access to expunged conviction records for applicants seeking licenses and positions in the private security and private detective industry. The amendments to subdivision 7 and subdivision 7a introduce new provisions that allow an expunged record of a conviction to be opened for evaluating current or prospective licensees under section 326.3381, as well as employees of license holders subject to background checks under section 326.336, subdivision 1, without requiring a court order. This change aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals in the private security sector are properly vetted.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the limitations on expungement orders effective before and after January 1, 2015. It maintains that DNA samples and records will not be sealed or destroyed upon expungement and outlines the conditions under which expunged records can be accessed by criminal justice agencies. The amendments also specify that agencies must inform law enforcement or corrections authorities about the existence of sealed records and their right to access them. Overall, the bill seeks to balance the rights of individuals with expunged records and the need for thorough background checks in the private security industry.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609A.03
1st Engrossment: 609A.03