Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB689

Introduced
3/24/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Refer
5/24/23  
Report Pass
6/5/23  
Engrossed
6/5/23  
Refer
6/6/23  
Refer
11/15/23  
Report Pass
12/13/23  
Refer
12/13/23  
Report Pass
12/13/23  
Enrolled
12/14/23  
Chaptered
12/14/23  

Caption

In criminal history record information, further providing for definitions, for general regulations, for expungement, for petition for limited access, for clean slate limited access, for exceptions, for effects of expunged records and records subject to limited access and for employer immunity from liability.

Impact

The bill impacts the state laws governing the accessibility and management of criminal history records. It establishes clearer parameters under which individuals can petition for limited access to their criminal records, notably for those convicted of misdemeanors who have fulfilled specific conditions, such as being free from conviction for a stipulated time and having paid any court-ordered restitution. This act aims to remove barriers for those with past offenses seeking employment or housing, thus promoting reintegration into society.

Summary

House Bill 689 amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes related to criminal history record information. The bill primarily focuses on the expungement of criminal records and the process for individuals to gain limited access to their records after a period of being free from conviction. A key feature of this legislation is the introduction of definitions for qualifying offenses, general regulations for record dissemination, and descriptors about the effects of expunged records, particularly pertaining to employment and housing.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 689 appears to lean positively among lawmakers focused on criminal justice reform. Supporters argue that the bill helps break down stigmas attached to criminal records and enables individuals to move forward with their lives without the burden of past convictions weighing against them. However, some concerns arise over the potential implications for public safety and the processes by which records may be expunged, indicating a measure of contention about the bill's approach to balancing rehabilitation with community safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 689 revolve around the criteria for qualifying offenses and the exemptions related to limited access for certain felonies. Critics express concern that making it easier for individuals to seal or expunge records could compromise the integrity of the system, potentially allowing individuals guilty of serious offenses to benefit from reduced visibility of their criminal history. The bill’s provision for employer immunity from liability regarding hiring individuals with expunged records also invokes debate about the protections available to employers and the community.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB852

In criminal history record information, further providing for definitions, for general regulations, for expungement, for petition for limited access, for clean slate limited access, for exceptions, for effects of expunged records and records subject to limited access and for employer immunity from liability.

PA SB97

Provides for "clean slate" limited access to a person's criminal history record relative to certain misdemeanors. (1/1/20)

PA SB944

In criminal history record information, further providing for expungement.

PA HB1741

In criminal history record information, further providing for expungement.

PA SB1402

Criminal records; expungement and sealing of records.

PA HB2400

Criminal records; expungement and sealing of records.

PA HB3024

Expungements; expungement of criminal history records; adding an expungement category; effective date.

PA HB2723

Criminal records; expungement and sealing of records, repeals Sealing Fee Fund.

PA SB1466

Criminal records; expungement and sealing of records, repeals Sealing Fee Fund.

PA SB1638

CRIMINAL RECORDS-EXPUNGEMENT

Similar Bills

PA SB852

In criminal history record information, further providing for definitions, for general regulations, for expungement, for petition for limited access, for clean slate limited access, for exceptions, for effects of expunged records and records subject to limited access and for employer immunity from liability.

PA SB838

In sentencing, further providing for order of probation, for conditions of probation and for modification or revocation of order of probation and providing for probation review conference.

PA SB875

In criminal history record information, further providing for clean slate limited access; in motivational boot camp, further providing for definitions, for selection of inmate participants, for motivational boot camp program, for procedure for selection of participant in motivational boot camp program, for completion of motivational boot camp program and for evaluation; in State drug treatment program, further providing for definitions; and, in miscellaneous provisions, providing for report on incarcerated individuals with certain health conditions.

PA HB2628

In juvenile matters, further providing for disposition of delinquent child and for limitation on and change in place of commitment; and making editorial changes.

PA SB975

In assault, further providing for the offense of terroristic threats.

PA HB1406

Amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania

PA SB169

In juvenile matters, further providing for limitation on and change in place of commitment; and making editorial changes.

PA SB96

In assault, further providing for the offense of terroristic threats.