Bill > LD1871

This bill establishes a new process for sealing criminal history record information for individuals who were victims of sex trafficking or sexual exploitation, meaning they were compelled into sexual acts due to trauma, exploitation, or other vulnerabilities, or were involved in promoting the sexual exploitation of minors or individuals with mental disabilities. Under this bill, individuals can petition to have their criminal convictions sealed if they can prove they were a victim of sex trafficking or sexual exploitation and that their crime was a substantial result of that victimization. The bill also clarifies definitions for "sex trafficking" and "sexual exploitation," allows for remote participation in hearings for these cases, and creates a presumption of victimization if official documentation is provided, while also accepting other credible evidence. Importantly, this new sealing provision for victims of sex trafficking or sexual exploitation is exempt from the automatic unsealing of records that occurs with subsequent new criminal convictions.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1871&snum=132