The bill amends existing laws regarding the expungement of criminal records in New Mexico, specifically addressing the processes for individuals wrongfully identified due to identity theft, those released without conviction, and those convicted of offenses. Key changes include the removal of the requirement for the court to issue an expungement order within thirty days of a hearing, as well as the elimination of the need to notify the Department of Public Safety and law enforcement agencies in certain circumstances. Additionally, the bill removes embezzlement from the list of offenses eligible for expungement.

The amendments streamline the expungement process by allowing individuals to petition the court without the previously mandated time constraints and notification requirements. The bill also clarifies that a single petition can cover multiple records and specifies the conditions under which expungement can be granted, such as the absence of pending charges and the completion of sentences. Overall, the legislation aims to simplify and enhance access to expungement for individuals seeking to clear their criminal records.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 29-3A-3, 29-3A-4, 29-3A-5, 29-10-8