Bill > SB854

This bill creates an automated expungement system for certain criminal records in Missouri, allowing for the automatic closure of records for clean slate eligible offenses without requiring a petition. Starting in 2029, the system will automatically close records for infractions, misdemeanors, and some felonies after specific waiting periods (one year for infractions and misdemeanors, three years for felonies) and provided the individual has not committed additional offenses. The bill limits the number of expungements an individual can receive in their lifetime (no more than two felonies and four misdemeanors) and establishes a process where the Office of State Courts Administrator will identify eligible records, notify prosecuting agencies, and allow them to object within 60 days. The bill requires the Missouri State Highway Patrol to maintain a non-public record of expunged convictions for specific legal purposes, creates a digital access portal for expungement orders, and establishes a Missouri Expungement Fund to support implementation costs. The law applies retroactively to any digital records regardless of when the arrest or conviction occurred, and it includes provisions for notifying individuals about potential future expungement at the time of sentencing or release from supervision. Importantly, the bill does not completely erase records but makes them inaccessible to the general public while maintaining their availability for specific legal and law enforcement purposes.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=270