Requires superior court clerk to automatically seal cases/individual counts of a criminal complaint/indictment that were dismissed, upon request of defendant and serve it upon bureau of criminal identification, police department and counsel of record.
Impact
The proposed legislation would significantly streamline the process for sealing court records related to criminal dismissals and exonerations. Under the new law, the superior court clerk would be required to seal relevant records upon the defendant's request, thereby relieving individuals from the burden of filing motions for sealing their records in many cases. This automatic sealing of records is expected to enhance access to employment and other opportunities for individuals once they have been cleared of charges, ultimately supporting rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Summary
Senate Bill 2127, introduced by Senators Dimitri, LaMountain, Famiglietti, and Bissaillon on January 16, 2026, seeks to amend the General Laws concerning the identification and apprehension of criminals. The main focus of the bill is to establish a procedure that ensures the automatic sealing of records for individuals whose criminal cases have been dismissed by the district courts. It stipulates that these records must be sealed not less than ten days and not more than twenty days after the dismissal, ensuring a timely process that supports individuals in restoring their reputations following unsubstantiated criminal charges.
Contention
While the bill appears to be beneficial for individuals seeking to clear their names, points of contention may arise concerning the implications for law enforcement. Critics may argue that automatic sealing could potentially hinder investigations or maintain a lack of transparency regarding past behavior. Additionally, concerns may be raised regarding the exceptions included in the bill, particularly those involving domestic violence cases, which require records to be retained for three years. The balance between individual rights and public safety will likely be a significant focal point during discussions regarding this legislation.
Requires superior court clerk to automatically seal cases/individual counts of a criminal complaint/indictment that were dismissed, upon request of the defendant and serve it upon bureau of criminal identification, police department and counsel of record.
Mandates that the clerk of the district court, upon request of the defendant, automatically seal individual counts of criminal complaints upon dismissal pursuant to rule 48(a) of the rules of criminal procedure for district court.
Mandates that the clerk of the district court, upon request of the defendant, automatically seal individual counts of criminal complaints upon dismissal pursuant to rule 48(a) of the rules of criminal procedure for district court.
Removes the 5 year waiting period to seal court records where a civil action was dismissed, or there was a lack of prosecution, or the matter resolved and the terms of the resolution satisfied, removes the limit of 1 request to seal records every 5 years.
Modifies the summons for eviction for reasons other than nonpayment of rent with the district court, to add a certificate of service section, and provides the option to post the summons/complaint conspicuously on door of the defendant/tenant's dwelling.
Requires health insurance policies to cover licensed certified lactation counselor services for childbearing families. It also prohibits requiring supervision or duplicate payments for services and mandates annual reporting.
Requires health insurance policies to cover licensed certified lactation counselor services for childbearing families. It also prohibits requiring supervision or duplicate payments for services and mandates annual reporting.