The Vermont Legislature has approved a bill that would significantly broaden eligibility for sealing certain criminal history records, sending the measure to Governor Phil Scott for consideration.
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Senate Bill 12, introduced in January by State Senator Nader Hashim (D), has now cleared both the Senate and House. The legislation replaces Vermont’s current dual system of expungement and sealing with a simplified process centered on record sealing. It also expands the types of offenses eligible for relief, including many non-violent property crimes and drug possession offenses.
The bill excludes certain serious crimes such as domestic assault, sexual offenses, and offenses committed by commercial drivers. For those eligible, individuals can petition to have their records sealed after completing their sentences and remaining conviction-free for a set period, typically ranging from three to ten years depending on the offense.
Once sealed, most employers, landlords, and licensing bodies would no longer have access to the records, though they would remain available to law enforcement and courts under specific circumstances. The legislation also streamlines procedures for courts and prosecutors to ensure a more efficient and consistent sealing process.
Supporters say the bill will help remove unnecessary barriers to employment, housing, and education for thousands of Vermonters with past convictions. Governor Scott will now decide whether to sign the measure into law.
