Bill

HB 670

85(R) - 2017
House Criminal Jurisprudence
House Criminal Jurisprudence
Criminal Procedure

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Terry Canales

Bill Caption

Relating to the expunction of arrest records and files relating to certain nonviolent misdemeanor offenses.


Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

This bill would create an avenue for non-violent offenders who have been charged with a misdemeanor to have all records and files related to the arrest expunged if they meet certain conditions. The person must have been placed on deferred adjudication community supervision for the offense and the offense must have subsequently been discharged and dismissed. They may not have been arrested for committing any other crimes considered a Class B or Class A misdemeanor, or a felony since the date they were placed on community supervision. Finally they must wait at least five years from the date that they were discharged and dismissed. 

Misdemeanor offenses related to disorderly conduct, public indecency, a weapons offense, an offense related to organized crime, or certain other serious offenses would not qualify for expunction if this bill were to pass. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill would help people that have been convicted of a non-violent misdemeanor crime move on with their life after fulfilling the terms of their punishment. HB 670 upholds our liberty principle of limited government by allowing people to have certain records expunged so that they may live productive and fulfilling lives.  

Organizations Supporting

Texas Coalition of Veterans Organizations
Texas Public Policy Foundation

Organizations Opposed

Game Warden Peace Officers Association