PHILADELPHIA, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro hosted a ceremonial bill signing on Friday, marking the enactment of the bipartisan Comprehensive Probation Reform legislation, previously known as SB 838. The new law aims to reform probation as a tool for helping Pennsylvanians reintegrate into their communities, providing them with deserved second chances.
The Governor was joined by Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, Meek Mill, Michael Rubin, Speaker Joanna McClinton, Senator Lisa Baker, House Appropriations Chairman Jordan Harris, General Assembly members, and criminal justice reform advocates for this landmark event.
House Bill 689 amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, modifying regulations related to expungement, petition for limited access, clean slate limited access, and employer immunity from liability among others. The bill was last acted upon on December 14, 2023, becoming Act No. 36 of 2023.
Governor Shapiro expressed his belief in second chances, stating that this legislation would remove unnecessary barriers for Pennsylvanians seeking to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. He emphasized that more people would now be able to spend holidays with their families, secure jobs, and get back on their feet after serving their time.
On Thursday, Governor Shapiro also signed the Clean Slate legislation, previously known as HB 689. This law ensures that pardoned Pennsylvanians will have their criminal records automatically cleared. Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis played a significant role in pushing this vital legislation across the finish line.
The Comprehensive Probation Reform legislation mandates probation review conferences after 2 years or 50% of the probation sentence, whichever comes first, and limits felony probation reviews to 4 years or 50% of the probation sentence. It instructs judges to presume against confinement for minor technical violations, meaning that individuals should not be sent back to jail unless they commit a serious violation, fail to complete court-mandated treatment, or pose a threat to public safety.
The new law also requires judges to examine each case individually to determine appropriate probation conditions for each defendant’s unique situation. It allows a court to end an indigent defendant’s probation early before they finish paying their court-ordered costs and fees. This comprehensive reform is a significant step forward for Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system.
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