On Tuesday, March 29, 2016, the Kentucky Senate passed House Bill 40, legislation which will allow for expungement of certain low-level felony offenses.
Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes has been an ardent proponent of felony expungement. She testified in support of House Bill 40 before the House Judiciary Committee in January.
Secretary Grimes issued the following statement:
"We're closer than ever to being able to say the Commonwealth of Kentucky truly offers second chances. I am proud that the Kentucky Senate has voted to pass House Bill 40, allowing expungement of certain low-level felony offenses of persons who have completed their sentence.
"For too long in Kentucky, too many people with a mistake in their past have been worried every second of the day about how they will provide for their families, pay their taxes, and meet other obligations because they cannot find gainful employment due to the scar on their record.
"While the amended legislation is not perfect, it is a reasonable compromise, and it is a great start in giving thousands of Kentuckians a second chance. I commend Rep. Darryl Owens, Rep. David Floyd, and Sen. Whitney Westerfield for the countless hours they have each spent on this issue.
"I urge the House to concur and send House Bill 40 to the Governor. Let's make it law."
