Michigan House Bill HB5011

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/18/25
• Refer: 9/18/25

Caption

Juveniles: criminal procedure; expunction of crimes resulting from being a victim of human trafficking; expand. Amends sec. 18e, ch. XIIA of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 712A.18e).

Impact

By enabling the set aside of these juvenile adjudications, HB 5011 could significantly affect the lives of young adults by allowing them to move on without the burden of a criminal record that could impede their ability to secure jobs, housing, and pursue education. The bill reflects a shift in recognizing that juveniles can make mistakes without it defining their future. This opportunity for expungement can improve public welfare by fostering rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Summary

House Bill 5011 proposes amendments to the Probate Code of 1939, specifically regarding the process by which individuals who have been adjudicated for juvenile offenses can seek to have those adjudications set aside. The bill allows individuals who have been adjudicated for not more than one felony and up to three misdemeanors to apply for expungement, provided they have no felony convictions. This change aims to support juveniles who might have run afoul of the law under circumstances reflective of their youth and immaturity rather than as a reflection of who they are as adults.

Contention

However, this bill also outlines specific restrictions. Notably, it excludes individuals adjudicated for crimes that would be felonies carrying a life sentence or involve serious offenses like weapon possession or assaultive crimes. As such, there are concerns that the bill may not go far enough to address the complexities of juvenile justice, with some advocates arguing for broader eligibility that includes certain non-violent felony offenses. Additionally, concerns may arise about ensuring that the judicial system can fairly manage the influx of applications without undue delay, which could impact all parties involved, including potential victims and the justice system itself.