Florida's Governor DeSantis approved HB 195, a bill that allows juveniles to have felony charges expunged from their records, a year after vetoing the measure. The most recent session's version broadens the access minors have to expunging lesser felonies and misdemeanors from their records.
Florida's Governor DeSantis approved HB 195, a bill that allows juveniles to have felony charges expunged from their records, a year after vetoing the measure. The most recent session's version broadens minors' access to expunging lesser felonies and misdemeanors from their records. This access allows minors to clear charges after completing a diversion program but excludes forcible felonies. Forcible felonies include violent crimes like murder, rape, and kidnapping. By adding this exclusion, the bill secured its passage by DeSantis, whose initial veto cited concern for public safety.
The original proponent of the legislation, the Florida Juvenile Justice Association, hopes that by providing a pathway out of the criminal justice system, minors will be able to grow from their mistakes. Sponsors of the bill also note the legislation's fiscal and public safety benefits. A clear record provides more opportunities for education and employment, especially with early intervention. Additionally, expunction is proven to reduce recidivism, improve crime rates, and reduce money spent by state prisons. With these collateral benefits to the legislation, it is more than just a criminal justice bill but also a workforce development bill.
Pro-expunction legislation not only affects the individual with a criminal record by altering their life trajectory, but it also benefits society as a whole. Further, rehabilitation for juvenile offenders occurs on a uniquely developmental level, allowing for effective reintegration into society. Over 26,000 minors will benefit from the measure. With HB 195 going into effect on July 1, 2022, the bill provides a basis on which later legislation for adult expunction can be built and inspired.
If your record prevents you from achieving your goals, look no further than Easy Expunctions, an affordable online record-cleaning solution committed to helping you get back on your feet. Of course, your situation is unique, so Easy Expunctions offers different packages tailored to your needs! Join our thousands of happy customers by visiting our website, EasyExpuntions.com, or speak with an expert at (866) 775-9983 to learn more.