Bill > H5889

This bill amends existing Rhode Island law regarding expungement of criminal records to allow law enforcement agencies to consider previously expunged records when evaluating applications for pistol or revolver carry licenses. Specifically, the bill modifies section 12-1.3-4 of the state's General Laws to add an exception to the standard expungement protections. Under current law, individuals with expunged records can generally state they have never been convicted of a crime and are released from most related penalties. However, this bill would now explicitly permit law enforcement agencies to access and review expunged records specifically when determining whether to issue a license or permit to carry a pistol or revolver. The bill also updates the language about record disclosure to include this new exception, ensuring that law enforcement can review an applicant's complete criminal history, even if some records have been expunged. The changes would take effect immediately upon passage, potentially providing law enforcement with more comprehensive background information when evaluating firearms carry permit applications.

Justice

https://status.rilegislature.gov/