Bill > HB1257

This bill comprehensively updates Tennessee's laws regarding criminal record expungement, providing expanded opportunities for individuals to have certain criminal records removed or destroyed. The bill significantly revises the existing expunction process by establishing detailed criteria for different types of criminal offenses that may be eligible for expunction, including misdemeanors, felonies, and cases involving mistaken identity. Key provisions include allowing expunction for individuals whose charges were dismissed, who were found not guilty, or who were arrested without being charged, with specific waiting periods and conditions based on the severity of the offense. The bill also creates new procedures for how expunction requests are processed, requiring the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to develop a certification form and courts to carefully review expunction petitions. Additionally, the legislation provides protections for individuals whose records are expunged, such as restoring their legal status to the position they were in before the arrest or conviction and preventing them from suffering collateral consequences related to the expunged offense. The bill aims to provide a more comprehensive and fair approach to helping individuals clear their criminal records under specific circumstances, potentially improving their opportunities for employment, housing, and other aspects of life.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1257&ga=114