The bill amends Section 12-1.3-2 of the General Laws regarding the expungement of criminal records. It introduces new provisions allowing first offenders to file for expungement of felony or misdemeanor convictions, with the stipulation that individuals convicted of violent crimes are ineligible. Notably, the bill reduces the waiting period for expungement from five years to three years for single misdemeanor convictions and from ten years to five years for felony convictions and multiple misdemeanors. Additionally, it clarifies that certain offenses, specifically those under chapter 29 of title 12, § 31-27-2, or § 31-27-2.1, are not eligible for expungement.

Furthermore, the bill allows individuals to seek expungement of records related to deferred sentences upon completion, and it provides a mechanism for expunging records of offenses that have been decriminalized after the conviction. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, streamlining the process for individuals seeking to clear their criminal records while maintaining certain restrictions for violent offenders.

Statutes affected:
875: 12-1.3-2