Bill > H5441

This bill reduces the waiting period for criminal record expungements in Rhode Island, making it easier for individuals with criminal records to clear their history. Specifically, the bill amends existing law to decrease the time required before filing for expungement from five to three years for a single misdemeanor, and from ten to five years for felonies and multiple misdemeanors. The bill maintains important restrictions, such as excluding violent crimes from expungement and requiring that all court-related fees and fines be paid. Expungement is a legal process that allows individuals to have their criminal records sealed or erased, which can help improve employment, housing, and educational opportunities. The changes apply to first-time offenders and those with multiple misdemeanors, though certain offenses related to specific traffic and criminal code sections remain ineligible. The bill will take effect immediately upon its passage, potentially providing quicker relief for individuals seeking to move past previous criminal convictions.

Justice

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