Lee Introduces Bipartisan Bill Improving Criminal Record Expungement and Sealing

Representative Laurel Lee (R-FL) has introduced a bipartisan bill streamlining the process for criminal record expungement and sealing. This would allow people who have been exonerated and paid their debts to society easier access to education, employment, and housing.

Rep. Lee's Fresh Start Act of 2025 gives federal support to states with automatic record sealing and expungement laws, thereby hastening the process so more former inmates can rebuild their lives faster.

States must also report to the Attorney General on the number of eligible individuals applying for and receiving automatic expungement and sealing. Additionally, states must provide information that is not immediately available within one year after the initial grant is awarded.

"People who have worked to turn their lives around after a criminal conviction deserve the opportunity to move forward, not be held back by administrative barriers," said Rep. Lee in her press release, adding, "Today, nearly one-third of Americans have a criminal record that can prevent them from getting a job, finding housing, or pursuing education—even when they qualify for record-sealing or expungement. The Fresh Start Act of 2025 modernizes and streamlines these processes for states, helping more individuals access the opportunities they've earned. I look forward to seeing my colleagues come together to pass this important legislation and ensure that everyone who deserves a second chance has the opportunity to build a better future."

Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), the bill's cosponsor, said, "No one should be denied a job, housing, or education because of bureaucratic red tape."

"Millions of Americans have arrest or conviction records that are eligible to be sealed or expunged, yet many are blocked by confusing, burdensome, and costly processes. I'm proud to cosponsor the bipartisan Fresh Start Act, which helps individuals who have been exonerated or who have paid their debts to society get a chance to contribute to their communities. This legislation will give states the resources they need to implement automatic record clearance systems that offer people a fresh start," Rep. Kamlager-Dove added.