Bill > S1124

This bill proposes several changes to criminal record management and presumption of innocence in Massachusetts, focusing on reducing the long-term negative impacts of criminal charges. First, it reduces the time periods for certain criminal record information retention from 10 years to 7 years, and from 5 years to 3 years. The bill requires that when criminal offender record information is shared about pending charges or offenses that did not result in a conviction, a statement must be included emphasizing the presumption of innocence. For juvenile records, the bill mandates automatic sealing of records for offenses that do not result in an adjudication, without requiring the juvenile to file a petition. Similarly, for adult criminal records, the bill requires immediate sealing of records for offenses that do not result in a conviction, with no waiting period. Additionally, the bill ensures that individuals whose records are sealed can more easily access those records through their local court clerk's office or the commissioner of probation, and waives copying fees for indigent individuals. These provisions aim to protect individuals from the long-term stigma and barriers associated with criminal charges that do not result in a conviction.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1124