The bill, S.B. No. 1515, proposes amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure regarding the expunction of records related to arrests for certain misdemeanor offenses that have been decriminalized. It introduces Article 55A.007, which entitles individuals to the expunction of all records and files related to their arrest if they were convicted or placed on deferred adjudication for a misdemeanor offense that has since been decriminalized. The bill outlines specific conditions under which expunction is granted, including the completion of any imposed sentences or community supervision, and the possibility of a dismissal under Article 42A.111.

Additionally, the bill amends Article 55A.251 to allow individuals entitled to expunction under the new Article 55A.007 to file an ex parte petition in the court that convicted them. It also establishes Article 55A.2545, which requires petitioners to demonstrate that their offense qualifies as decriminalized during the expunction hearing. Furthermore, Article 55A.3565 is added to clarify the retention and inspection of records after expunction, allowing certain entities to retain records for specific purposes while ensuring they remain closed to public inspection. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies to all relevant misdemeanor offenses committed before, on, or after this date.