Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB829

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

Expungement; revise list of eligible crimes.

Impact

The implementation of HB 829 could significantly change the landscape of expungement laws in Mississippi, making it easier for first offenders to clear their records and thus improve their chances for employment and societal reintegration. This reform is particularly important for those who commit non-violent crimes, as it allows them to overcome barriers that could hinder their opportunities long after serving their sentences. Additionally, the law restricts expungement to one felony conviction, which aims to encourage individuals to maintain good conduct post-conviction.

Summary

House Bill 829 aims to amend Section 99-19-71 of the Mississippi Code to clarify and revise the crimes eligible for expungement. According to this bill, first-time offenders convicted of misdemeanors that are not traffic violations can petition for the removal of those convictions from public records. For felonies, the bill allows for one conviction to be expunged five years after completing the sentence, provided all fines and costs have been paid. However, certain serious offenses, such as violent crimes, drug trafficking, and embezzlement, are excluded from eligibility for expungement, which reflects an effort to balance rehabilitation and public safety.

Contention

The bill's adjustments have sparked discussions regarding the appropriateness of expungement for certain crimes. Supporters highlight the benefits of giving individuals a second chance, advocating for the importance of rehabilitation in the criminal justice system. Opponents, however, voice concerns that allowing expungement for misdemeanors and certain felonies could undermine public safety. They argue that strict limits on what offenses are eligible for expungement are necessary to ensure that individuals who have committed more serious crimes are held accountable and that the public is protected from potential recidivism.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB852

Expungement; revise list of eligible crimes.

MS HB62

Expungement; revise list of eligible crimes.

MS HB197

Embezzlement; revise the list of excluded crimes for expungement.

MS HB95

Embezzlement; revise the list of excluded crimes for expungement.

MS HB69

Embezzlement; revise the list of excluded crimes for expungement.

MS HB267

Embezzlement; revise the list of excluded crimes for expungement.

MS HB855

Expungement; remove certain types of embezzlement from list of excluded crimes.

MS HB930

Expungement; remove certain types of embezzlement from list of excluded crimes.

MS HB59

Expungement; remove certain types of embezzlement from list of excluded crimes.

MS HB848

Expungement; delete embezzlement from ineligible crimes for.

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