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About Senate Bill 1019

Connecticut’s Senate Bill 1019 (SB1019) creates allowances for various criminal records to be erased. This includes records that occurred before a specified date in which the defendant was found to be not guilty and eligible misdemeanors that fit a variety of circumstances. Certain felonies may also be authorized for expunction.

SB1019 was signed by Governor Ned Lamont on June 10, 2021 and goes into effect on July 1, 2021. Read the bill.

Prohibiting Discrimination

In addition to creating laws that allow criminal records to be expunged, SB1019 also established that on or after January 1, 2023, it will be illegal to discriminate against people who have their criminal records erased. The bill lists discriminatory practices that apply to employers, landlords, credit providers and others who make decisions regarding consumers.

Support From Religious Leaders

SB1019 received support from various religious organizations. Several leaders spoke in favor of the bill and provided written testimony. Some offered opinions that once a prisoner serves their sentence, they are not fully “set free” because they have records hanging over them. This can make it difficult for individuals to find employment, housing and other necessities. By passing this bill, lawmakers hope to provide people with second chances to make a fresh start. It is also expected to help reduce the rate of recidivism.

This bill coincides with a national Second Chance Movement. Numerous laws have been passed to help people avoid difficulties that can come with having any type of criminal record. Common examples include laws that:

• Ask employers to remove questions about criminal records from job applications.
• Call for the expungement of minor and outdated convictions.
• Require employers to hold off on inquiring about criminal records until they have conducted an interview or extended a conditional job offer.

What Employers Should Know

Employers in Connecticut should be aware that SB1019 was signed into law and therefore many criminal records could be expunged over time. When a record is erased, it cannot be considered at any point during or beyond the hiring process. If an employer is aware that a job seeker had a criminal record sealed, they are not permitted to discriminate against that person in any way.

Organizations should be prepared for compliance with all aspects of this bill. We recommend consulting with legal counsel.

Comprehensive Screening

When organizations bring on employees, contractors or volunteers, they are encouraged to run comprehensive background checks that are produced by an accredited Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA). A CRA takes precautions to follow relevant laws and not include records that have been expunged, erased or otherwise sealed in their reports.

Background checks help hiring managers make informed decisions and create safe workplaces. These reports show if a candidate has the required education and employment history or any criminal records about which employers should be aware.

When you need background checks for employment purposes, please contact us. The team at Backgrounds Online is highly experienced and knowledgeable about screening laws and best practices. We are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.