SCS/SB 251 - This act allows a person convicted of one or more felonies or misdemeanors to have the criminal record expunged after 15 consecutive years without a conviction. Violent felonies, sex-related offenses and high-level drug offenses prevent expungement.

Upon the closing of a criminal record, the petitioner is subject to a 3-year probationary period with 100 hours of community service. If the 3-year period is successfully completed, the criminal records shall be expunged. Penalty provisions are included, and protection is given to criminal justice agencies for prior arrests and convictions.

No person who petitions for expungement of criminal records may be employed by any gambling operations licensed in Missouri.

ARREST RECORDS: In addition to current procedures available to expunge arrest records, a law enforcement officer or the court may expunge an arrest record without a petition if such arrest: 1) was a felony arrest that occurred at least 15 years ago; or 2) was a misdemeanor arrest that occurred at least 10 years ago; and 3) no charges were filed based on such felony or misdemeanor arrest.

JAMES KLAHR