The bill amends Section 12-1.3-2 of the General Laws regarding the expungement of criminal records. It allows individuals to file for expungement of misdemeanor convictions after three years from the date of completion of their sentence, reduced from the previous five-year waiting period. For felony convictions, individuals can file for expungement after five years, down from ten years. The bill also permits individuals with multiple misdemeanor convictions (fewer than six) to seek expungement, while excluding certain offenses from eligibility. Additionally, it clarifies that individuals can file for expungement of records related to deferred sentences upon completion and allows for expungement of records for offenses that have been decriminalized since the conviction. The act aims to streamline the expungement process and make it more accessible for individuals seeking to clear their criminal records, taking effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
875: 12-1.3-2