MARYLAND – April 22nd Governor Wes Moore has signed into law the Second Look Act , legislation that could give Marylanders a fresh start at a new life. Senate Bill 432 – The Expungement Reform Act is just one more piece of legislation that goes hand in hand with Justice Reform.

“I said when I was campaigning, and I say it now. I refuse to be a governor who just simply attends funerals and offers thoughts and prayers, without delivering any real substantive change to be able to deal with the human conditions that caused that in the first place.” And so far, Governor Wes Moore has kept his promise.

June 2024, Governor Wes Moore signed a historic executive Clemency order which pardoned 175,000 Maryland convictions cannabis convictions. This was the largest pardon for misdemeanor cannabis possession charges for any state in the country.

Now, The Expungement Reform Act that is championed by the Governor, is meant to alleviate the lasting impacts of criminal records on rehabilitated Marylanders. “We know that for far too many Marylanders their criminal record is an albatross that is tied around their necks for life. They cannot get a loan, they cannot get a home, they cannot get hired, and often times it’s because of an offense that they committed years if not decades ago.”

The Maryland General Assembly Department of Legislative Services released a bill summary that noted the racial disparities within the system, affirming the need for the bill.

Stating in part “Based on data from the Division of Parole and Probation, the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the Department of State Police, the bill will impact a significant number of individuals. Black individuals may benefit to the greatest extent given their general overrepresentation in the criminal justice system.”

Governor Moore says this all they’re asking for is a second chance. “The Expungement Reform Act will help us to build new pipelines of opportunity for more Marylanders, and advance our commitment to uplifting young men and boys in our state… We’ve got to confront this myth that every sentance needs to be a life sentance. And that’s what the Expungement Reform Act of 2025 is all about.”

The Act shall take effect in a few months on October 1, 2025.