S1161
An Act relative to the expungement of convictions for marijuana possession
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House
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Bill overview
This bill would allow individuals in Massachusetts with prior convictions for marijuana possession to petition the court to have those convictions expunged from their records. It aims to provide a pathway for people with past marijuana offenses to move forward with their lives and employment opportunities. The bill seeks to address inequities created by past marijuana laws and promote fairness in the justice system. It establishes a process for individuals to apply for expungement, potentially restoring rights and reducing barriers to accessing housing, employment, and other services.
Key provisions
- Establishes a process for individuals to petition for expungement of marijuana possession convictions.
- Allows for the expungement of convictions for offenses involving less than 3 ounces of marijuana.
- Creates a registry to track expungements.
- Specifies criteria for determining eligibility for expungement.
- Outlines the procedures for the expungement process.
- Provides for a timeline for the completion of expungement petitions.
Who is affected
- Individuals with prior marijuana possession convictions in Massachusetts.
- Former marijuana offenders.
- Legal professionals involved in expungement proceedings.
- The Massachusetts court system.
- Individuals seeking employment or housing.
Notable changes
- This bill would create a new mechanism for expunging marijuana convictions, supplementing existing processes.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Jason M. Lewis
Cosponsor
Jason M. Lewis
Arguments in favor
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Bill S.1161 194th (Current)
An Act relative to the expungement of convictions for marijuana possession
By Mr. Lewis, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1161) of Jason M. Lewis for legislation relative to the expungement of convictions for marijuana possession. The Judiciary.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Jason M. Lewis
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill S.1161
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on The Judiciary |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 9/2/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 1:00 PM-5:00 PM in A-2 and virtual |
| 10/20/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/09/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2 |
| 12/18/2025 | Senate | Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2886 |
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