North Dakota Lawmakers Expand Access to Second Chances

‍Bismark, ND — Earlier today, the North Dakota House of Representatives gave final approval of HB 1166, legislation that expands the eligibility of those who are eligible to have a record sealed after making a mistake and being held accountable. More information about HB 1166 is below.

Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative, issued the following statement after the bill’s passage:

“Today marks a meaningful step for North Dakotans who have earned the opportunity to move forward with their lives after an arrest or conviction. The Clean Slate Initiative congratulates the lawmakers who have championed and supported HB 1166, which will make it easier for people with past records in the state to access a second chance. This is an important moment — and we hope that the state will continue the momentum by introducing Clean Slate legislation to automate the sealing of arrest or conviction records for those who have completed their time and remained crime-free.

“It’s especially powerful that this progress is happening during Second Chance Month, a time when communities across the country are recognizing the importance of redemption and the power of a fresh start. HB 1166 is a reflection of that spirit.

“As a former bill sponsor of The Clean Slate Act of 2023 (H.R. 2930) while serving in Congress, Gov. Kelly Armstrong has a strong track record of supporting second-chance legislation. We urge the Governor to continue that leadership by signing HB 1166 into law.”

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More About HB 1166

Introduced during the 69th Legislative Assembly, HB 1166 proposes amendments to Chapter 12-60.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the sealing or closing of certain records, and defining key terms such as “closed,” “court record,” and “non-conviction.” The bill allows people with misdemeanor convictions to petition to have their records sealed if they’ve stayed out of trouble for three years. People with certain felonies can petition to have a record sealed after five years. Starting August 1, 2025, any case that ends without a conviction will be automatically closed after 61 days, unless it falls under specific exceptions like plea deals or mental health findings. People can also petition the court to seal older non-conviction records, and they won’t have to pay a fee to do so.