ME LD1911

Establishes automatic sealing of criminal records beginning January 1, 2027, requiring the Administrative Office of the Courts to review electronic case records monthly and issue sealing orders without requiring individuals to file petitions

Eligible convictions include Class D and E crimes (after 5 years) and Class A, B, or C drug crimes (after 10 years plus sentence completion), excluding sexual offenses, domestic violence crimes, stalking, protective order violations, and cruelty to animals

Excludes from automatic sealing any person with subsequent convictions, pending criminal charges, or charges dismissed through deferred disposition since completing their sentence

Allows individuals with sealed records to legally deny the existence of the conviction to non-criminal justice agencies, without facing sanctions or perjury charges

Preserves the existing right to file a motion to seal criminal records that may not qualify for automatic sealing under this new process