Connecticut Senate Bill SB00779

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

An Act Concerning Criminal Record History.

Impact

The implications of SB00779 are profound, as it seeks to overturn measures that were designed to help individuals who have made positive changes in their lives to move forward without the stigma of a criminal record. By repealing the automatic erasure provisions, the bill may impact many individuals' ability to access employment and housing opportunities that are often contingent on background checks. Critics argue that this could disproportionately affect those from marginalized communities who are working to reintegrate into society.

Summary

SB00779, introduced by Senator Sampson and Representatives Dauphinais and Mastrofrancesco, is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying existing laws related to the automatic erasure of criminal record history. Specifically, the bill seeks to repeal provisions established by previous public acts that facilitated the automatic expungement of criminal records under certain conditions. This change represents a significant alteration in the legal landscape concerning how criminal records are managed in the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00779 revolve around the balance between public safety and individual rehabilitation. Proponents of the repeal argue that maintaining access to criminal records is necessary for employers and organizations to ensure safety and trust. On the other hand, opponents caution against the potential for ongoing discrimination against those with past convictions, emphasizing the need for policies that support second chances rather than perpetuate hardships associated with prior offenses.