Bill > HB858

This bill modifies the timeline for when individuals who have been placed on deferred adjudication community supervision can petition for an order of nondisclosure of their criminal history record information. Currently, the waiting periods vary depending on the type of offense, and this bill shortens some of those waiting periods. Specifically, for misdemeanors under certain Penal Code chapters (like those involving assault, sexual offenses, and family violence) and state jail felonies, the waiting period is reduced from the second anniversary to the first anniversary of discharge and dismissal. For felonies not classified as state jail felonies, the waiting period is reduced from five years to three years after discharge and dismissal. Deferred adjudication is a form of community supervision where a defendant pleads guilty or no contest, but the court defers a finding of guilt, allowing the person to complete certain requirements that could result in the charges being dismissed. The bill aims to provide earlier opportunities for individuals to seek to seal their criminal records, potentially improving their chances of employment and reintegration. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB858