ND State Capitol (Madison Quinn, KFGO)
BISMARCK, N.D. (KFGO/KVRR) — North Dakota lawmakers are looking at a bill to change rules for sealing criminal records.
Currently, only people convicted of non-violent crimes can petition to have their records sealed. The bill changes some of the rules regarding denied petitions and the ability of convicts to appeal that denial.
If passed into law, one of the biggest changes would be the state allowing those appeals. It also shortens the time a person can re-petition to have their criminal records sealed from three years down to just one.
Those in favor of the bill argue that people convicted of non-violent crimes have a difficult time finding jobs and reintegrating back into society.
Christopher Davis, a supporter of the bill, says, “I petitioned the Grand Forks District Court to seal my record. I submitted documentation showing I applied for over 700 jobs, received eight job offers, and all but one of them was rescinded because I was a felon. Once my petition was denied, I was told I’d have to wait 3 more years before trying again. No appeal. No review. Just more lost time, missed opportunity, and quiet punishment.”
Records are only sealed from the public.
Police can see them for investigation purposes and judges can view them to determine the need for enhanced sentences.
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