Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB852

Introduced
6/30/23  

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 implications of SB852 on state laws are substantial as it seeks to modernize and streamline the expungement process, creating clearer pathways for individuals seeking to clear their criminal records. By implementing a clean slate policy, the bill is expected to alleviate barriers that prevent rehabilitated individuals from accessing employment and housing opportunities. This legislative change is intended to promote social reintegration, potentially leading to lower recidivism rates as individuals find stable employment and housing without the stigma of a criminal record.

Summary

SB852 proposes significant reforms to regulations regarding criminal history record information, aiming to enhance the expungement process and provide individuals with a clean slate. The bill outlines several key provisions, including the definitions related to criminal records, the general regulations for expungement, and the processes involved in petitioning for limited access to such records. One of the primary objectives of SB852 is to facilitate smoother reintegration for individuals with a criminal history by enabling them to seek expungement more effectively and providing protections for employers who hire individuals with expunged records.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SB852 have generally been positive, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for reform in how criminal records are handled. Many advocates for criminal justice reform view the bill as a progressive step towards ensuring individuals are not permanently penalized for past mistakes. However, there is still some apprehension regarding the nuances of the legislation, particularly concerning the balance between protecting the rights of those with criminal histories and maintaining public safety.

Contention

Despite the overall support for SB852, there are notable areas of contention. Critics express concern about the potential risks associated with granting broader access to expungement, emphasizing the need for inclusive guidelines to prevent misuse of the process. Additionally, discussions have revolved around the implications for employers, particularly regarding their liability when hiring individuals with expunged records. Balancing the interests of facilitating reintegration while addressing public safety and employer concerns remains a focal point of the ongoing debate surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB689

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 HB3024

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

PA SB1402

Criminal records; expungement and sealing of records.

PA HB2400

Criminal records; expungement and sealing of records.

PA HB1769

In dockets, indices and other records, providing for limited access to eviction information.

PA SB549

In dockets, indices and other records, providing for limited access to eviction information.

PA SB1137

In dockets, indices and other records, providing for limited access to eviction information.

Similar Bills

PA HB689

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 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 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 SB1118

In magisterial district judges, further providing for adjudication alternative program; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege, for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation and for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked, providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended for certain other offenses, for relief from administrative suspension and for relief from administrative suspension participation requirements; in fees, further providing for reinstatement of operating privilege or vehicle registration; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

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 SB169

In juvenile matters, further providing 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 HB1521

In magisterial district judges, further providing for adjudication alternative program; in licensing of drivers, further providing for drivers required to be licensed, for suspension of operating privilege, for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation and for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked, providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended for certain other offenses, for relief from administrative suspension and for relief from administrative suspension participation requirements; in fees, further providing for reinstatement of operating privilege or vehicle registration; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.