A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

Governor signs non-violent felony expungement bill into law, gives offenders a second chance


Governor signs expungement bill.

Governor signs expungement bill.

Governor Matt Bevin, joined by Senate President Robert Stivers, Sen. Whitney Westerfield, Rep. Darryl Owens, Rep. David Floyd, Justice and Public Safety Sec. John Tilley and many other legislators and advocates, signed House Bill 40 into law, giving non-violent felony offenders who have paid their debt to society a second chance.

“It is a great day when doing the right thing transcends all political boundaries and all ideologies,” said Governor Bevin. “It’s an honor and privilege to be able to sign House Bill 40 into law. It is critical that there is an opportunity for redemption and second chances because America is a land that was founded on these principles. The greatness, uniqueness, beauty and extraordinary nature of America is based on the fact that we do give people an opportunity for redemption.”

House Bill 40 will allow Kentuckians convicted of certain Class D felonies who have paid their debt to society, stayed out of trouble as required by the law, and have shown that they are indeed trying to get back on track to erase their criminal records and get a second chance at jobs, housing and other opportunities sometimes denied felons.

“This bill is about redemption, good policy and workforce development,” said Justice and Public Safety Sec. John Tilley. “But if you’ve ever spoken with someone who’s been given a second chance and have had a piece of their dignity restored, you know immediately why this bill goes far beyond any policy measure, job or economic development success.”

“I’m grateful to see the passage of a bill that gives hope to tens of thousands of Kentuckians looking for a new start in their lives,” said Sen. Westerfield. “This is one of a handful of enormously consequential days I’ve had the privilege to experience while serving in the Senate, and I’m thankful for the many hands that worked to bring this to fruition.”

“I can’t say enough about how this is going to be a life-altering piece of legislation,” said Rep. Owens. “I think this is probably one of the most consequential pieces of legislation to come out of the legislature this year. The Governor’s endorsement was critical.”


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7 Comments

  1. Sonya Humphrey says:

    Will they be eligible to bear arms again and voting rights restored? I hope so!

    • Sheryl F says:

      I’m pretty sure that when a felony is expunged, it is as if it never happened. So I would imagine so. So proud of our governor for endorsing and signing this law.

  2. Robbie Hall, MPA says:

    I have 32 years in with the city of Newport, Ky.
    My last five as Police Chief, this bill sounds wonderful. I believe that this will in the long run
    help reduce crime. A big thank you to the Governor and Legislatures.

  3. Mark says:

    I have child support which is a class d felony from 7 years ago. How do I get it expunged or taken off. Any ideas.

  4. Gene Belisle says:

    Can anyone tell me how I can go about doing this?

  5. Sylvia carr says:

    Its just for Kentucky pple? That’s not rite Louisiana pple need a 2 chance also! That should be for us to!

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