Because Louisiana has one of the costliest and most cumbersome expungement processes in the US, it inspired legislation to remove application fees and improve communication between various agencies. New Orleans Senator Royce Duplessis said once upgrades to computer systems are complete it will streamline the process.
“When instead of having to file a petition with the court, hire an attorney, individuals would now just have to submit a simple form and the process will then take care of itself,” said Duplessis.
Approximately 1.3 million Louisianans could benefit from the passage of the legislation and Duplessis said they estimate the newer process could be up and running in the next year and a half.
Duplessis said eligibility requirements for expungement will not change.
“It does not expand who’s eligible it just simply changes the process to make it easier for those who are eligible,” said Duplessis.
The current process requires a $550 fee. Duplessis said that a criminal record for even nonviolent offenders can prevent them from employment and housing. Many are left with few options and could possibly return to a life of crime.
When some lawmakers questioned the need for the legislation, Duplessis explained that an individual who’s seeking an expungement is not a person who’s looking to commit another crime.
“The person who’s seeking an expungement is literally looking for a fresh start. So why would we want to have additional barriers in place for something they are already legally entitled to?” Duplessis questioned.
Duplessis said he’s hopeful that once Sheriff’s Offices, Clerks of Courts, District Attorney Offices and State Police will be able to share information with each other that the expungement process will eventually become automatic.
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