Arizona Legislature Sends Criminal Record Sealing Bill to Governor, Clarifies Critical Implementation Processes

Justice Action Network Applauds Legislation that Paves the Way for Second Chances

Phoenix, AZ – Today, the Arizona Senate passed Senate Bill 1639, a bill that expands the state’s record sealing statute and access to second chances for those who have made a mistake and remained crime free for a set number of years. The bill, championed by Speaker Ben Toma, continues the state’s commitment to removing barriers to workforce participation for people with prior criminal convictions who have served their time and stayed on the right path. The bill previously passed the Arizona House with a 58-1 vote. 

Now headed to Governor Hobbs for her signature, the legislation streamlines the process for individuals seeking to seal their records, clarifying eligibility criteria outlined in a 2021 effort that expanded record sealing in the state. Among the clarifications, the bill allows for the sealing of records as soon as a given case becomes eligible, eliminating a prolonged wait period if a person has subsequent cases that would be sealed at a later date. 

"The Arizona legislature has taken a crucial step towards providing true second chances for individuals with criminal records,” said Lauren Krisai, Deputy Director for Justice Action Network, “Removing barriers to employment not only benefits individuals and their families but also strengthens communities and promotes public safety. Arizona’s economy and public safety will both benefit from the legislature’s commitment to getting record sealing processes right in the Grand Canyon State, and we were proud to support this bill."

“We’re thankful to Speaker Toma for his continued leadership on this issue over the years, as well as to the legislature for passing this important bill. We look forward to Governor Hobbs swiftly signing it into law.”