Ex. Summary:

Senate Bill 22-099 simplifies the process of sealing criminal records to enhance employment, housing, and economic opportunities for individuals with nonviolent offenses. The bill expands automatic sealing for eligible petty offenses, misdemeanors, and nonviolent felonies as long as individuals meet the waiting period requirements without incurring new offenses. It also prevents consumer reporting agencies from including sealed or expunged records in background checks unless mandated by law. The legislation instructs the state court administrator to identify and process eligible records while allowing district attorneys to object under specific conditions. Although sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement and prosecutors, their use in employment and housing decisions is restricted. By eliminating barriers to reintegration, the bill fosters workforce access, reduces recidivism, and promotes economic stability for individuals with prior convictions.