NY S07926

Establishes a new petition process allowing individuals to seal criminal records for one felony conviction (10+ years after conviction) or up to two misdemeanors (7+ years after last conviction), with exceptions for violent felonies, sex offenses, public corruption, and certain vehicle offenses.

Requires completion of all sentences including imprisonment, parole, probation, restitution, community service, fines, and court-ordered conditions before sealing eligibility; waiting periods are tolled during any incarceration related to the conviction.

Grants courts discretion to seal felony records based on circumstances, rehabilitation efforts, criminal history, public safety, and victim statements; mandates sealing for eligible misdemeanor-only convictions with no prior felonies.

Permits sealed records to be accessed by law enforcement, gun licensing agencies, police/peace officer employers, child protective agencies, and entities overseeing vulnerable persons; automatically unseals records upon subsequent felony arraignment or misdemeanor conviction.

Amends Executive Law Section 296 to prohibit discrimination in employment, licensing, and credit/insurance based on sealed convictions under this section, and clarifies that inquiries about criminal convictions only apply to unsealed records.