Texas HB996 allows certain criminal defendants to petition for nondisclosure of their criminal history record information for offenses committed.

HB996 amends the Texas Government Code to allow individuals convicted of certain offenses committed before age 25 to petition for nondisclosure of their criminal history record information. This applies to those who have completed their sentence, including any confinement, community supervision, fines, costs, and restitution. The petition can be filed after two years for misdemeanors or five years for felonies. The court must issue an order prohibiting disclosure if it is in the best interest of justice, following notice to the state and a hearing. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.

Texas HB996 allows certain criminal defendants to petition for nondisclosure of their criminal history record information for offenses committed.

HB996 amends the Texas Government Code to allow individuals convicted of certain offenses committed before age 25 to petition for nondisclosure of their criminal history record information. This applies to those who have completed their sentence, including any confinement, community supervision, fines, costs, and restitution. The petition can be filed after two years for misdemeanors or five years for felonies. The court must issue an order prohibiting disclosure if it is in the best interest of justice, following notice to the state and a hearing. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.