Bill > SB537

This bill modifies the procedures for expunging arrest records for individuals who successfully complete certain court programs, specifically veterans treatment court programs, mental health court programs, and pretrial intervention programs. The bill changes existing law to require (rather than allow) district courts to automatically enter expunction orders within 30 days after a case is dismissed following program completion. Previously, the court needed the consent of the prosecuting attorney to enter such an order. The bill also allows community supervision departments and prosecutors' offices to retain these records solely for the purpose of developing and operating future pretrial intervention programs. Additionally, the bill waives expunction-related fees for individuals who successfully complete these programs. The changes apply retroactively to arrests that occurred before the bill's effective date, and the bill provides a mechanism for individuals who completed these programs prior to the law's enactment to still obtain expunction. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to streamline the process of clearing arrest records for individuals who have successfully completed rehabilitative court programs.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB537