S.B. No. 1667 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance the procedures for the expunction of arrest records and files. Key changes include the addition of a requirement for individuals seeking expunction under specific articles to provide detailed information in their petitions, including personal identification details and the circumstances surrounding their arrest. The bill also mandates that district clerks maintain an online list of relevant agencies and their contact information, ensuring that petitioners can easily access this information. Furthermore, the bill introduces a fee structure, allowing clerks to charge $25 for each agency that cannot receive electronic notifications regarding expunction orders.
Additional provisions in the bill clarify the responsibilities of the court and clerks in handling expunction petitions and orders. For instance, the court must set a hearing date at least 30 days after a petition is filed and notify relevant agencies through certified or electronic mail. The bill also stipulates that certain mental health records must be retained confidentially, regardless of expunction orders. Overall, S.B. No. 1667 aims to streamline the expunction process while ensuring that necessary records are managed appropriately and that individuals seeking expunction have clear guidelines to follow. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.