The proposed bill amends chapter 610 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding new sections (610.141 to 610.144) that create a framework for the automated expungement of certain criminal records. Starting August 28, 2029, records related to "clean slate eligible offenses" will be automatically closed without the need for a petition, provided that specific conditions are met, such as the completion of probation and no new felony or misdemeanor offenses during a designated time frame. The bill also specifies limitations on the number of offenses eligible for expungement and excludes juvenile records and those with pending charges. Additionally, it mandates that the state courts administrator will identify and transmit eligible records for expungement, while outlining the responsibilities of prosecuting agencies and circuit courts in the process. Moreover, the bill establishes that once a conviction is expunged, the individual is generally considered not to have been previously convicted for most legal purposes, with certain exceptions, such as the inability to reclaim fines associated with the expunged conviction and the rights of victims to pursue civil actions. It also creates a "Missouri Expungement Fund" to support the expungement process and outlines the responsibilities of credit bureaus regarding the reporting of criminal records, limiting the reporting period to seven years and requiring the removal of records upon expungement. Employers who hire individuals with expunged records are granted immunity from liability related to those offenses, thereby promoting reintegration into the workforce. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the expungement process while ensuring accountability and support for individuals affected by criminal records.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (6395H.01): 610.141, 610.142, 610.143, 610.144