This bill introduces significant restrictions on the use and dissemination of expunged criminal records in New Jersey. It amends N.J.S.A.2C:52-30 to classify the wrongful disclosure of an expunged record as a disorderly persons offense, while also eliminating the previous $200 cap on fines for such violations. The bill mandates that background check providers only report information received from the State Bureau of Identification or the Judiciary within the last 30 days, promptly delete any records they know to be expunged, and provide individuals with a free means to request corrections to their records, including the deletion of expunged information within 30 days of the request. Additionally, it establishes a civil right of action for individuals whose expunged records are wrongfully disclosed.

Furthermore, the bill requires professional licensing boards to redact or seal references to expunged convictions in their records if a license is suspended or revoked due to such a conviction, while still allowing the fact of the suspension or revocation to remain public. It also mandates the State Police and Judiciary to adopt regulations ensuring compliance with the new provisions regarding the non-disclosure of expunged records. The bill aims to enhance the protection of individuals with expunged records and mitigate the negative impacts of past convictions on their professional and personal lives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2B:1-4, 45:1-21.4, 53:1-20.6