Next Step Act of 2019

To reform sentencing, prisons, re-entry of prisoners, and law enforcement practices, and for other purposes. 1. Short title; table of contents (a) Short title This Act may be cited as the Next Step Act of 2019 (b) Table of contents The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Division A—Sentencing Reform: Ending Mass Incarceration Title I—Elimination of Crack Cocaine Sentencing Disparity Sec. 101. Elimination of increased penalties for cocaine offenses where the cocaine involved is cocaine base. Title II—Marijuana Justice Act Sec. 201. Short title. Sec. 202. De-scheduling marihuana. Sec. 203. Ineligibility for certain funds. Sec. 204. Community Reinvestment Fund. Title III—Smarter Sentencing Act Sec. 301. Short title. Sec. 302. Sentencing modifications for certain drug offenses. Sec. 303. Directive to the Sentencing Commission. Sec. 304. Report by Attorney General. Sec. 305. Report on Federal criminal offenses. Title IV—Parole for Juveniles Sec. 401. Parole for juveniles. Title V—Reverse Mass Incarceration Sec. 501. Short title. Sec. 502. Grant program. Division B—Prison Reform Title VI—Dignity Act Sec. 601. Short title. Sec. 602. Treatment of primary caretaker parents and other individuals in Federal prisons. Sec. 603. Overnight visit pilot program. Division C—Re-entry Reform: Reducing the Collateral Consequences of Conviction Title VII—Fair Chance Act Sec. 701. Short title. Sec. 702. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries prior to conditional offer for Federal employment. Sec. 703. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer. Sec. 704. Report on employment of individuals formerly incarcerated in Federal prisons. Title VIII—Fair Chance Licensing Act Sec. 801. Short title. Sec. 802. Restrictions on use of criminal records to disqualify individuals from employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification. Sec. 803. Transparency and accountability study. Title IX—REDEEM Act Sec. 901. Short title. Sec. 902. Sealing of criminal records. Sec. 903. Juvenile sealing and expungement. Sec. 904. Study and report on cost savings from sealing and expungement provisions. Sec. 905. TANF assistance and SNAP benefits. Sec. 906. State incentives. Sec. 907. Gender equality in Federal juvenile delinquency proceedings. Sec. 908. Ensuring accuracy in the FBI background check system. Sec. 909. Report on statutory and regulatory restrictions and disqualifications based on criminal records. Title X—Democracy Restoration Act Sec. 1001. Short title. Sec. 1002. Findings. Sec. 1003. Definitions. Sec. 1004. Rights of citizens. Sec. 1005. Enforcement. Sec. 1006. Notification of restoration of voting rights. Sec. 1007. Relation to other laws. Sec. 1008. Federal prison funds. Sec. 1009. Effective date. Title XI—New Pathways Act Sec. 1101. Short title. Sec. 1102. Identification for returning citizens. Division D—Police Reform Title XII—PRIDE Act Sec. 1201. Short title. Sec. 1202. Definitions. Sec. 1203. Use of force reporting. Sec. 1204. Community and law enforcement partnership grant program. Sec. 1205. Compliance with reporting requirements. Sec. 1206. Authorization of appropriations. Title XIII—End Racial and Religious Profiling Act Sec. 1301. Short title. Sec. 1302. Definitions. Subtitle A—Prohibition of Racial Profiling Sec. 1311. Prohibition. Sec. 1312. Enforcement. Subtitle B—Programs To Eliminate Racial Profiling By Federal Law Enforcement Agencies Sec. 1321. Policies to eliminate racial profiling. Subtitle C—Programs To Eliminate Racial Profiling By State, Local, and Indian Tribal Law Enforcement Agencies Sec. 1331. Policies required for grants. Sec. 1332. Involvement of Attorney General. Sec. 1333. Data collection demonstration project. Sec. 1334. Best practices development grants. Sec. 1335. Authorization of appropriations. Subtitle D—Data Collection Sec. 1341. Attorney General to issue regulations. Sec. 1342. Publication of data. Sec. 1343. Limitations on publication of data. Subtitle E—Department of Justice Regulations and Reports on Racial Profiling in the United States Sec. 1351. Attorney General to issue regulations and reports. Subtitle F—Miscellaneous Provisions Sec. 1361. Severability. Sec. 1362. Savings clause. A Sentencing Reform: Ending Mass Incarceration I Elimination of Crack Cocaine Sen­tenc­ing Disparity 101. Elimination of increased penalties for cocaine offenses where the cocaine involved is cocaine base (a) Controlled substances act The following provisions of the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 801 (1) Clause (iii) of section 401(b)(1)(A). (2) Clause (iii) of section 401(b)(1)(B). (b) Controlled substances import and export act The following provisions of the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act ( 21 U.S.C. 951 (1) Subparagraph (C) of section 1010(b)(1). (2) Subparagraph (C) of section 1010(b)(2). (c) Applicability to pending and past cases (1) Pending cases This section, and the amendments made by this section, shall apply to any offense that was committed before the date of enactment of this Act, if a sentence for the offense has not been imposed as of such date of enactment. (2) Past cases In the case of a defendant who, before the date of enactment of this Act, was convicted of an offense for which the penalty is amended by this section and was sentenced to a term of imprisonment for the offense, the sentencing court may, on motion of the defendant or the Director of the Bureau of Prisons, or on its own motion, reduce the term of imprisonment for the offense, after considering the factors set forth in section 3553(a) of title 18, United States Code, to the extent the factors are applicable, if such a reduction is consistent with— (A) this section and the amendments made by this section; and (B) applicable policy statements issued by the United States Sentencing Commission. II Marijuana Justice Act 201. Short title This title may be cited as the Marijuana Justice Act of 2019 202. De-scheduling marihuana (a) Marihuana removed from schedule of controlled substances Subsection (c) of schedule I of section 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 812 (1) by striking marihuana (2) by striking tetrahydrocannabinols (b) Removal of Prohibition on Import and Export Section 1010(b) of the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act ( 21 U.S.C. 960 (1) in paragraph (1)— (A) in subparagraph (F), by inserting or (B) by striking subparagraph (G); and (C) by redesignating subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (G); (2) in paragraph (2)— (A) in subparagraph (F), by inserting or (B) by striking subparagraph (G); and (C) by redesignating subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (G); (3) in paragraph (3), by striking paragraphs (1), (2), and (4) paragraphs (1) and (2) (4) by striking paragraph (4); and (5) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), respectively. (c) Conforming amendments to Controlled Substances Act The Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 801 (1) in section 102(44) ( 21 U.S.C. 802(44) marihuana, (2) in section 401(b) ( 21 U.S.C. 841(b) (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in subparagraph (A)— (I) in clause (vi), by inserting or (II) by striking (vii); and (III) by redesignating clause (viii) as clause (vii); (ii) in subparagraph (B)— (I) by striking clause (vii); and (II) by redesignating clause (viii) as clause (vii); (iii) in subparagraph (C), in the first sentence, by striking subparagraphs (A), (B), and (D) subparagraphs (A) and (B) (iv) by striking subparagraph (D); (v) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as subparagraph (D); and (vi) in subparagraph (D)(i), as so redesignated, by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D) subparagraph (C) (B) by striking paragraph (4); and (C) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), respectively; (3) in section 402(c)(2)(B) ( 21 U.S.C. 842(c)(2)(B) , marihuana, (4) in section 403(d)(1) ( 21 U.S.C. 843(d)(1) , marihuana, (5) in section 418(a) ( 21 U.S.C. 859(a) (6) in section 419(a) ( 21 U.S.C. 860(a) (7) in section 422(d) ( 21 U.S.C. 863(d) (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking marijuana, (B) in paragraph (5), by striking , such as a marihuana cigarette, (8) in section 516(d) ( 21 U.S.C. 886(d) section 401(b)(6) section 401(b)(5) (d) Other conforming amendments (1) National Forest System Drug Control Act of 1986 The National Forest System Drug Control Act of 1986 ( 16 U.S.C. 559b (A) in section 15002(a) ( 16 U.S.C. 559b(a) marijuana and other (B) in section 15003(2) ( 16 U.S.C. 559c(2) marijuana and other (C) in section 15004(2) ( 16 U.S.C. 559d(2) marijuana and other (2) Interception of Communications Section 2516 of title 18, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (1)(e), by striking marihuana, (B) in subsection (2) by striking marihuana, 203. Ineligibility for certain funds (a) Definitions In this section— (1) the term covered State (2) the term disproportionate arrest rate (A) the percentage of minority individuals arrested for a marijuana related offense in a State is higher than the percentage of the non-minority individual population of the State, as determined by the most recent census data; or (B) the percentage of low-income individuals arrested for a marijuana offense in a State is higher than the percentage of the population of the State that are not low-income individuals, as determined by the most recent census data; (3) the term disproportionate incarceration rate (4) the term low-income individual section 63 section 1 (5) the term marijuana marihuana 21 U.S.C. 802 (6) the term minority individual (b) Ineligibility for certain funds (1) In general For any fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act in which the Attorney General, acting through the Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance, determines that a covered State has a disproportionate arrest rate or a disproportionate incarceration rate for marijuana offenses, the covered State— (A) shall not be eligible to receive any Federal funds for the construction or staffing of a prison or jail; and (B) shall be subject to not more than a 10-percent reduction of the funds that would otherwise be allocated for that fiscal year to the covered State under subpart 1 of part E of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 ( 34 U.S.C. 3750 (2) Funds for certain programming For purposes of paragraph (1)(A), Federal funds for the construction or staffing of a prison or jail shall not include Federal funds used by a prison or jail to carry out recidivism reduction programming or drug addiction treatment. (3) Reallocation Any amounts not awarded to a covered State because of a determination under paragraph (1) shall be deposited in the Community Reinvestment Fund established under section 104. (c) Expungement of marijuana offense convictions Each Federal court shall issue an order expunging each conviction for a marijuana use or possession offense entered by the court before the date of enactment of this Act. (d) Sentencing review (1) In general For any individual who was sentenced to a term of imprisonment for a Federal criminal offense involving marijuana before the date of enactment of this Act and is still serving such term of imprisonment, the court that imposed the sentence, shall, on motion of the individual, the Director of the Bureau of Prisons, the attorney for the Government, or the court, conduct a sentencing hearing. (2) Potential reduced resentencing After a sentencing hearing under paragraph (1), a court may impose a sentence on the individual as if this title, and the amendments made by this title, were in effect at the time the offense was committed. (e) Right of action (1) In general An individual who is aggrieved by a disproportionate arrest rate or a disproportionate incarceration rate of a State may bring a civil action in an appropriate district court of the United States. (2) Relief In a civil action brought under this subsection in which the plaintiff prevails, the court shall— (A) grant all necessary equitable and legal relief, including declaratory relief; and (B) issue an order requiring the Attorney General, acting through the Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance, to— (i) declare the State to be ineligible to receive any Federal funds for the construction or staffing of a prison or jail in accordance with subsection (b)(1)(A); and (ii) reduce grant funding of the State in accordance with subsection (b)(1)(B). 204. Community Reinvestment Fund (a) Establishment There is established in the Treasury of the United States a fund, to be known as the Community Reinvestment Fund Fund (b) Deposits The Fund shall consist of— (1) any amounts not awarded to a covered State because of a determination under section 203(b)(1); and (2) any amounts otherwise appropriated to the Fund. (c) Use of Fund amounts Amounts in the Fund shall be available to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a grant program to reinvest in communities most affected by the war on drugs, which shall include providing grants to impacted communities for programs such as— (1) job training; (2) reentry services; (3) expenses related to the expungement of convictions; (4) public libraries; (5) community centers; (6) programs and opportunities dedicated to youth; (7) the special purpose fund discussed below; and (8) health education programs. (d) Availability of Fund amounts Amounts in the Fund shall be available without fiscal year limitation. (e) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to the Fund $500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2041. III Smarter Sentencing Act 301. Short title This title may be cited as the Smarter Sentencing Act of 2019 302. Sentencing modifications for certain drug offenses (a) Controlled Substances Act The Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 801 (1) in section 102 ( 21 U.S.C. 802 (A) by redesignating paragraph (58) as paragraph (59); (B) by redesignating the second paragraph (57) (relating to the term serious drug felony (C) by adding at the end the following: (60) The term courier ; and (2) in section 401(b)(1) ( 21 U.S.C. 841(b)(1) (A) in subparagraph (A), in the flush text following clause (viii)— (i) by striking 10 years or more 5 years or more (ii) by striking such person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment which may not be less than 15 years and such person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and (B) in subparagraph (B), in the flush text following clause (viii)— (i) by striking 5 years 2 years (ii) by striking not be less than 10 years not be less than 5 years (b) Controlled Substances Import and Export Act Section 1010(b) of the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act ( 21 U.S.C. 960(b) (1) in paragraph (1), in the flush text following subparagraph (H)— (A) by inserting , other than a person who is a courier, such violation (B) by striking person commits person, other than a courier, commits (C) by inserting If a person who is a courier commits such a violation, the person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years and not more than life. If a person who is a courier commits such a violation after a prior conviction for a felony drug offense has become final, the person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and not more than life. Notwithstanding section 3583 (2) in paragraph (2), in the flush text following subparagraph (H)— (A) by inserting , other than a person who is a courier, such violation (B) by striking person commits person, other than a courier, commits (C) by inserting If a person who is a courier commits such a violation, the person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 2 years and not more than life. If a person who is a courier commits such a violation after a prior conviction for a felony drug offense has become final, the person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years and not more than life. Notwithstanding section 3583 303. Directive to the Sentencing Commission (a) Directive to Sentencing Commission Pursuant to its authority under section 994(p) of title 28, United States Code, and in accordance with this section, the United States Sentencing Commission shall review and amend, if appropriate, its guidelines and its policy statements applicable to persons convicted of an offense under section 401 of the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 841 21 U.S.C. 960 (b) Considerations In carrying out this section, the United States Sentencing Commission shall consider— (1) the mandate of the United States Sentencing Commission, under section 994(g) of title 28, United States Code, to formulate the sentencing guidelines in such a way as to minimize the likelihood that the Federal prison population will exceed the capacity of the Federal prisons (2) the findings and conclusions of the United States Sentencing Commission in its October 2011 report to Congress entitled, Mandatory Minimum Penalties in the Federal Criminal Justice System; (3) the fiscal implications of any amendments or revisions to the sentencing guidelines or policy statements made by the United States Sentencing Commission; (4) the relevant public safety concerns involved in the considerations before the United States Sentencing Commission; (5) the intent of Congress that penalties for violent, repeat, and serious drug traffickers who present public safety risks remain appropriately severe; and (6) the need to reduce and prevent racial disparities in Federal sentencing. (c) Emergency authority The United States Sentencing Commission shall— (1) promulgate the guidelines, policy statements, or amendments provided for in this Act as soon as practicable, and in any event not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, in accordance with the procedure set forth in section 21(a) of the Sentencing Act of 1987 ( 28 U.S.C. 994 (2) pursuant to the emergency authority provided under paragraph (1), make such conforming amendments to the Federal sentencing guidelines as the Commission determines necessary to achieve consistency with other guideline provisions and applicable law. 304. Report by Attorney General Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall submit to the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report outlining how the reduced expenditures on Federal corrections and the cost savings resulting from this Act will be used to help reduce overcrowding in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, help increase proper investment in law enforcement and crime prevention, and help reduce criminal recidivism, thereby increasing the effectiveness of Federal criminal justice spending. 305. Report on Federal criminal offenses (a) Definitions In this section— (1) the term criminal regulatory offense (2) the term criminal statutory offense (b) Report on criminal statutory offenses Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall submit to the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate and the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives a report, which shall include— (1) a list of all criminal statutory offenses, including a list of the elements for each criminal statutory offense; and (2) for each criminal statutory offense listed under paragraph (1)— (A) the potential criminal penalty for the criminal statutory offense; (B) the number of prosecutions for the criminal statutory offense brought by the Department of Justice each year for the 15-year period preceding the date of enactment of this Act; and (C) the mens rea requirement for the criminal statutory offense. (c) Report on criminal regulatory offenses (1) Reports Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the head of each Federal agency described in paragraph (2) shall submit to the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate and the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives a report, which shall include— (A) a list of all criminal regulatory offenses enforceable by the agency; and (B) for each criminal regulatory offense listed under subparagraph (A)— (i) the potential criminal penalty for a violation of the criminal regulatory offense; (ii) the number of violations of the criminal regulatory offense referred to the Department of Justice for prosecution in each of the years during the 15-year period preceding the date of enactment of this Act; and (iii) the mens rea requirement for the criminal regulatory offense. (2) Agencies described The Federal agencies described in this paragraph are the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Commerce, the Department of Education, the Department of Energy, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Labor, the Department of Transportation, the Department of the Treasury, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Farm Credit Administration, the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Election Commission, the Federal Labor Relations Authority, the Federal Maritime Commission, the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission, the Federal Trade Commission, the National Labor Relations Board, the National Transportation Safety Board, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission, the Office of Compliance, the Postal Regulatory Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Small Business Administration, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and the Office of Government Ethics. (d) Index Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act— (1) the Attorney General shall establish a publicly accessible index of each criminal statutory offense listed in the report required under subsection (b) and make the index available and freely accessible on the website of the Department of Justice; and (2) the head of each agency described in subsection (c)(2) shall establish a publicly accessible index of each criminal regulatory offense listed in the report required under subsection (c)(1) and make the index available and freely accessible on the website of the agency. (e) Rule of construction Nothing in this section shall be construed to require or authorize appropriations. IV Parole for Juveniles 401. Parole for juveniles (a) In general Chapter 403 section 5032 5032A. Modification of an imposed term of imprisonment for violations of law committed prior to age 18 (a) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a court may reduce a term of imprisonment imposed upon a defendant convicted as an adult for an offense committed and completed before the defendant attained 18 years of age if— (1) the defendant has served not less than 20 years in custody for the offense; and (2) the court finds, after considering the factors set forth in subsection (c), that the defendant is not a danger to the safety of any person or the community and that the interests of justice warrant a sentence modification. (b) Supervised release Any defendant whose sentence is reduced pursuant to subsection (a) shall be ordered to serve a period of supervised release of not less than 5 years following release from imprisonment. The conditions of supervised release and any modification or revocation of the term of supervise release shall be in accordance with section 3583. (c) Factors and information To be considered in determining whether To modify a term of imprisonment The court, in determining whether to reduce a term of imprisonment pursuant to subsection (a), shall consider— (1) the factors described in section 3553(a), including the nature of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant; (2) the age of the defendant at the time of the offense; (3) a report and recommendation of the Bureau of Prisons, including information on whether the defendant has substantially complied with the rules of each institution in which the defendant has been confined and whether the defendant has completed any educational, vocational, or other prison program, where available; (4) a report and recommendation of the United States attorney for any district in which an offense for which the defendant is imprisoned was prosecuted; (5) whether the defendant has demonstrated maturity, rehabilitation, and a fitness to reenter society sufficient to justify a sentence reduction; (6) any statement, which may be presented orally or otherwise, by any victim of an offense for which the defendant is imprisoned or by a family member of the victim if the victim is deceased; (7) any report from a physical, mental, or psychiatric examination of the defendant conducted by a licensed health care professional; (8) the family and community circumstances of the defendant at the time of the offense, including any history of abuse, trauma, or involvement in the child welfare system; (9) the extent of the role of the defendant in the offense and whether, and to what extent, an adult was involved in the offense; (10) the diminished culpability of juveniles as compared to that of adults, and the hallmark features of youth, including immaturity, impetuosity, and failure to appreciate risks and consequences, which counsel against sentencing juveniles to the otherwise applicable term of imprisonment; and (11) any other information the court determines relevant to the decision of the court. (d) Limitation on applications pursuant to this section (1) Second application Not earlier than 5 years after the date on which an order entered by a court on an initial application under this section becomes final, a court shall entertain a second application by the same defendant under this section. (2) Final application Not earlier than 5 years after the date on which an order entered by a court on a second application under paragraph (1) becomes final, a court shall entertain a final application by the same defendant under this section. (3) Prohibition A court may not entertain an application filed after an application filed under paragraph (2) by the same defendant. (e) Procedures (1) Notice The Bureau of Prisons shall provide written notice of this section to— (A) any defendant who has served not less than 19 years in prison for an offense committed and completed before the defendant attained 18 years of age for which the defendant was convicted as an adult; and (B) the sentencing court, the United States attorney, and the Federal Public Defender or Executive Director of the Community Defender Organization for the judicial district in which the sentence described in subparagraph (A) was imposed. (2) Crime victims rights Upon receiving notice under paragraph (1), the United States attorney shall provide any notifications required under section 3771. (3) Application (A) In general An application for a sentence reduction under this section shall be filed as a motion to reduce the sentence of the defendant and may include affidavits or other written material. (B) Requirement A motion to reduce a sentence under this section shall be filed with the sentencing court and a copy shall be served on the United States attorney for the judicial district in which the sentence was imposed. (4) Expanding the record; hearing (A) Expanding the record After the filing of a motion to reduce a sentence under this section, the court may direct the parties to expand the record by submitting additional written materials relating to the motion. (B) Hearing (i) In general The court shall conduct a hearing on the motion, at which the defendant and counsel for the defendant shall be given the opportunity to be heard. (ii) Evidence In a hearing under this section, the court may allow parties to present evidence. (iii) Defendant’s presence At a hearing under this section, the defendant shall be present unless the defendant waives the right to be present. The requirement under this clause may be satisfied by the defendant appearing by video teleconference. (iv) Counsel A defendant who is unable to obtain counsel is entitled to have counsel appointed to represent the defendant for proceedings under this section, including any appeal, unless the defendant waives the right to counsel. (v) Findings The court shall state in open court, and file in writing, the reasons for granting or denying a motion under this section. (C) Appeal The Government or the defendant may file a notice of appeal in the district court for review of a final order under this section. The time limit for filing such appeal shall be governed by rule 4(a) of the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure. (f) Educational and rehabilitative programs A defendant who is convicted and sentenced as an adult for an offense committed and completed before the defendant attained 18 years of age may not be deprived of any educational, training, or rehabilitative program that is otherwise available to the general prison population. . (b) Table of sections The table of sections for chapter 403 section 5032 5032A. Modification of an imposed term of imprisonment for violations of law committed prior to age 18. . (c) Applicability The amendments made by this section shall apply to any conviction entered before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act. V Reverse Mass Incarceration 501. Short title This title may be cited as the Reverse Mass Incarceration Act of 2019 502. Grant program (a) In general Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Street Act of 1968 ( 34 U.S.C. 10101 OO State Prison Population Reduction Grant Program 3051. Grant program (a) In general The Attorney General may make grants to States to assist States in reducing crime rates and incarcerations. (b) Eligibility A State shall be eligible to receive a grant under this section if the State demonstrates that, during the 3-year period preceding the application for a grant under this section— (1) the total number of individuals incarcerated in correctional or detention facilities in the State was reduced by not less than 7 percent; and (2) the rate of crime within the State did not increase by more than 3 percent. (c) Application An eligible State seeking a grant under this section shall submit to the Attorney General an application in such form and manner and at such time as the Attorney General requires, which shall include a clear methodology based on population size and other factors. (d) Use of grant funds A grant awarded under this section shall be used by a State to implement evidence-based programs designed to reduce crime rates and incarcerations. . (b) Authorization of appropriations Section 1001(a) of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 ( 34 U.S.C. 10261(a) (29) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out part OO $2,000,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2020 through 2029. . B Prison Reform VI Dignity Act 601. Short title This title may be cited as the Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act of 2019 Dignity Act 602. Treatment of primary caretaker parents and other individuals in Federal prisons (a) In general Chapter 303 4051. Treatment of primary caretaker parents and other individuals (a) Definitions In this section— (1) the term correctional officer (2) the term Director (3) the term primary caretaker parent 34 U.S.C. 12242 (4) the term prisoner (b) Visitation rules The Director shall promulgate regulations for visitation between prisoners who are primary caretaker parents and their family members under which— (1) a prisoner may receive visits not fewer than 6 days per week, which shall include Saturday and Sunday; (2) a Federal penal or correctional institution shall be open for visitation for not fewer than 8 hours per day; (3) a prisoner may have up to 5 adult visitors and an unlimited number of child visitors per visit; and (4) a prisoner may have physical contact with visitors unless the prisoner presents an immediate physical danger to the visitors. (c) Parenting classes The Director shall provide parenting classes to each prisoner who is a primary caretaker parent. (d) Trauma-informed care (1) In general The Director shall provide trauma-informed care to each prisoner who is diagnosed with trauma. (2) Identification and referral The Director shall provide training to each correctional officer and each other employee of the Bureau of Prisons who regularly interacts with prisoners, including health care professionals and instructors, to enable the employees to identify prisoners with trauma and refer those prisoners to the proper health­care professional for treatment. (e) Ombudsman The Attorney General shall designate an ombudsman to oversee and monitor, with respect to Federal penal and correctional institutions— (1) prisoner transportation; (2) use of segregated housing; (3) strip searches of prisoners; and (4) civil rights violations. (f) Telecommunications (1) In general The Director— (A) may not charge a fee for a telephone call made by a prisoner; and (B) shall make videoconferencing available to prisoners in each Federal penal or correctional institution free of charge. (2) Rule of construction Nothing in paragraph (1)(B) shall be construed to authorize the Director to use videoconferencing as a substitute for in-person visits. (g) Inmate health (1) Healthcare products (A) Availability The Director shall make the healthcare products described in subparagraph (C) available to prisoners for free, in a quantity that is appropriate to the healthcare needs of each prisoner. (B) Quality of products The Director shall ensure that the healthcare products provided under this paragraph conform with applicable industry standards. (C) Products The healthcare products described in this subparagraph are— (i) tampons; (ii) sanitary napkins; (iii) moisturizing soap, which may not be lye-based; (iv) shampoo; (v) body lotion; (vi) Vaseline; (vii) toothpaste; (viii) toothbrushes; (ix) aspirin; (x) ibuprofen; and (xi) any other healthcare product that the Director determines appropriate. (2) Gynecologist access The Director shall ensure that female prisoners have access to a gynecologist. (h) Use of sex-Appropriate correctional officers (1) Regulations The Director shall promulgate regulations under which— (A) a correctional officer may not conduct a strip search of a prisoner of the opposite sex unless— (i) the prisoner presents a risk of immediate harm to herself or himself or others; and (ii) no other correctional officer of the same sex as the prisoner is available to assist; and (B) a correctional officer may not enter a restroom reserved for prisoners of the opposite sex unless— (i) (I) a prisoner in the restroom presents a risk of immediate harm to herself or himself or others; or (II) there is a medical emergency in the restroom; and (ii) no other correctional officer of the appropriate sex is available to assist. (2) Relation to other laws Nothing in paragraph (1) shall be construed to affect the requirements under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 ( 34 U.S.C. 30301 . (b) Substance abuse treatment Section 3621(e) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (7) Eligibility of primary caretaker parents and pregnant women The Bureau of Prisons may not prohibit a prisoner who is a primary caretaker parent (as defined in section 4051) or pregnant from participating in a program of residential substance abuse treatment provided under paragraph (1) based on the failure of the individual, before being committed to the custody of the Bureau, to disclose to any official that the individual had a substance abuse problem. . (c) Technical and conforming amendments (1) Table of sections The table of sections for chapter 303 4051. Treatment of primary caretaker parents and other individuals. . (2) Healthcare products Section 611 of the First Step Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–391 603. Overnight visit pilot program (a) Definitions In this section— (1) the term Director (2) the term primary caretaker parent 34 U.S.C. 12242 (3) the term prisoner (b) Pilot program The Director shall carry out a pilot program under which prisoners who are primary caretaker parents and meet eligibility criteria established by the Director may receive overnight visits from family members. (c) Eligibility criteria In establishing eligibility criteria for the pilot program under subsection (b), the Director shall— (1) require that a prisoner have displayed good behavior; and (2) prohibit participation by any prisoner who has been convicted of a crime of violence (as defined in section 16 of title 18, United States Code). C Re-Entry Reform: Reducing the Collateral Consequences of Conviction VII Fair Chance Act 701. Short title This title may be cited as the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 Fair Chance Act 702. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries prior to conditional offer for Federal employment (a) In general Subpart H of part III of title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 92 Prohibition on Criminal History Inquiries Prior to Conditional Offer Sec. 9201. Definitions. 9202. Limitations on requests for criminal history record information. 9203. Agency policies; whistleblower complaint procedures. 9204. Adverse action. 9205. Procedures. 9206. Rules of construction. 9201. Definitions In this chapter— (1) the term agency Executive agency (A) the United States Postal Service and the Postal Regulatory Commission; and (B) the Executive Office of the President; (2) the term appointing authority (3) the term conditional offer (4) the term criminal history record information (A) except as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (C), has the meaning given the term in section 9101(a); (B) includes any information described in the first sentence of section 9101(a)(2) that has been sealed or expunged pursuant to law; and (C) includes information collected by a criminal justice agency, relating to an act or alleged act of juvenile delinquency, that is analogous to criminal history record information (including such information that has been sealed or expunged pursuant to law); and (5) the term suspension 9202. Limitations on requests for criminal history record information (a) Inquiries prior to conditional offer Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c), an employee of an agency may not request, in oral or written form (including through the Declaration for Federal Employment (Office of Personnel Management Optional Form 306) or any similar successor form, the USAJOBS internet website, or any other electronic means) that an applicant for an appointment to a position in the civil service disclose criminal history record information regarding the applicant before the appointing authority extends a conditional offer to the applicant. (b) Otherwise required by law The prohibition under subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to an applicant for a position in the civil service if consideration of criminal history record information prior to a conditional offer with respect to the position is otherwise required by law. (c) Exception for certain positions (1) In general The prohibition under subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to an applicant for an appointment to a position— (A) that requires a determination of eligibility described in clause (i), (ii), or (iii) of section 9101(b)(1)(A); (B) as a Federal law enforcement officer (as defined in section 115(c) of title 18); or (C) identified by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management in the regulations issued under paragraph (2). (2) Regulations (A) Issuance The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall issue regulations identifying additional positions with respect to which the prohibition under subsection (a) shall not apply, giving due consideration to positions that involve interaction with minors, access to sensitive information, or managing financial transactions. (B) Compliance with civil rights laws The regulations issued under subparagraph (A) shall— (i) be consistent with, and in no way supersede, restrict, or limit the application of title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ( 42 U.S.C. 2000e (ii) ensure that all hiring activities conducted pursuant to the regulations are conducted in a manner consistent with relevant Federal civil rights laws. 9203. Agency policies; whistleblower complaint procedures The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall— (1) develop, implement, and publish a policy to assist employees of agencies in complying with section 9202 and the regulations issued pursuant to such section; and (2) establish and publish procedures under which an applicant for an appointment to a position in the civil service may submit a complaint, or any other information, relating to compliance by an employee of an agency with section 9202. 9204. Adverse action (a) First violation If the Director of the Office of Personnel Management determines, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing on the record, that an employee of an agency has violated section 9202, the Director shall— (1) issue to the employee a written warning that includes a description of the violation and the additional penalties that may apply for subsequent violations; and (2) file such warning in the employee’s official personnel record file. (b) Subsequent violations If the Director of the Office of Personnel Management determines, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing on the record, that an employee that was subject to subsection (a) has committed a subsequent violation of section 9202, the Director may take the following action: (1) For a second violation, suspension of the employee for a period of not more than 7 days. (2) For a third violation, suspension of the employee for a period of more than 7 days. (3) For a fourth violation— (A) suspension of the employee for a period of more than 7 days; and (B) a civil penalty against the employee in an amount that is not more than $250. (4) For a fifth violation— (A) suspension of the employee for a period of more than 7 days; and (B) a civil penalty against the employee in an amount that is not more than $500. (5) For any subsequent violation— (A) suspension of the employee for a period of more than 7 days; and (B) a civil penalty against the employee in an amount that is not more than $1,000. 9205. Procedures (a) Appeals The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall by rule establish procedures providing for an appeal from any adverse action taken under section 9204 by not later than 30 days after the date of the action. (b) Applicability of other laws An adverse action taken under section 9204 (including a determination in an appeal from such an action under subsection (a) of this section) shall not be subject to— (1) the procedures under chapter 75; or (2) except as provided in subsection (a) of this section, appeal or judicial review. 9206. Rules of construction Nothing in this chapter may be construed to— (1) authorize any officer or employee of an agency to request the disclosure of information described under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section 9201(4); or (2) create a private right of action for any person. . (b) Regulations; effective date (1) Regulations Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall issue such regulations as are necessary to carry out chapter 92 (2) Effective date Section 9202 of title 5, United States Code (as added by subsection (a)), shall take effect on the date that is 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act. (c) Technical and conforming amendment The table of chapters for part III of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to chapter 91 the following: 92. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries prior to conditional offer 9201 . (d) Application to Legislative Branch (1) In general The Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 ( 2 U.S.C. 1301 (A) in section 102(a) ( 2 U.S.C. 1302(a) (12) Section 9202 of title 5, United States Code. ; (B) by redesignating section 207 ( 2 U.S.C. 1317 (C) by inserting after section 206 ( 2 U.S.C. 1316 207. Rights and protections relating to criminal history inquiries (a) Definitions In this section, the terms agency criminal history record information suspension (b) Restrictions on criminal history inquiries (1) In general (A) In general Except as provided in subparagraph (B), an employee of an employing office may not request that an applicant for employment as a covered employee disclose criminal history record information if the request would be prohibited under section 9202 of title 5, United States Code, if made by an employee of an agency. (B) Conditional offer For purposes of applying that section 9202 under subparagraph (A), a reference in that section 9202 to a conditional offer shall be considered to be an offer of employment as a covered employee that is conditioned upon the results of a criminal history inquiry. (2) Rules of construction The provisions of section 9206 of title 5, United States Code, shall apply to employing offices, consistent with regulations issued under subsection (d). (c) Remedy (1) In general The remedy for a violation of subsection (b)(1) shall be such remedy as would be appropriate if awarded under section 9204 of title 5, United States Code, if the violation had been committed by an employee of an agency, consistent with regulations issued under subsection (d), except that the reference in that section to a suspension shall be considered to be a suspension with the level of compensation provided for a covered employee who is taking unpaid leave under section 202. (2) Process for obtaining relief An applicant for employment as a covered employee who alleges a violation of subsection (b)(1) may rely on the provisions of title IV (other than section 407 or 408, or a provision of this title that permits a person to obtain a civil action or judicial review), consistent with regulations issued under subsection (d). (d) Regulations To implement section (1) In general Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (2) Parallel with agency regulations The regulations issued under paragraph (1) shall be the same as substantive regulations issued by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management under section 702(b)(1) of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (e) Effective Date Section 102(a)(12) and subsections (a) through (c) shall take effect on the date on which section 9202 of title 5, United States Code, applies with respect to agencies. . (2) Clerical amendments (A) The table of contents in section 1(b) of the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 ( Public Law 104–1 (i) by redesignating the item relating to section 207 as the item relating to section 208; and (ii) by inserting after the item relating to section 206 the following new item: Sec. 207. Rights and protections relating to criminal history inquiries. . (B) Section 62(e)(2) or 207 207, or 208 (e) Application to judicial branch (1) In general Section 604 of title 28, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (i) Restrictions on criminal history inquiries (1) Definitions In this subsection— (A) the terms agency criminal history record information (B) the term covered employee (i) any judge or justice who is entitled to hold office during good behavior; (ii) a United States magistrate judge; or (iii) a bankruptcy judge; and (C) the term employing office (2) Restriction A covered employee may not request that an applicant for employment as a covered employee disclose criminal history record information if the request would be prohibited under section 9202 of title 5 if made by an employee of an agency. (3) Employing office policies; complaint procedure The provisions of sections 9203 and 9206 of title 5 shall apply to employing offices and to applicants for employment as covered employees, consistent with regulations issued by the Director to implement this subsection. (4) Adverse action (A) Adverse action The Director may take such adverse action with respect to a covered employee who violates paragraph (2) as would be appropriate under section 9204 of title 5 if the violation had been committed by an employee of an agency. (B) Appeals The Director shall by rule establish procedures providing for an appeal from any adverse action taken under subparagraph (A) by not later than 30 days after the date of the action. (C) Applicability of other laws Except as provided in subparagraph (B), an adverse action taken under subparagraph (A) (including a determination in an appeal from such an action under subparagraph (B)) shall not be subject to appeal or judicial review. (5) Regulations to be issued (A) In general Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (B) Parallel with agency regulations The regulations issued under subparagraph (A) shall be the same as substantive regulations promulgated by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management under section 702(b)(1) of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (6) Effective date Paragraphs (1) through (4) shall take effect on the date on which section 9202 of title 5 applies with respect to agencies. . 703. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer (a) Civilian agency contracts (1) In general Chapter 47 4714. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer (a) Limitation on criminal history inquiries (1) In general Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), an executive agency— (A) may not require that an individual or sole proprietor who submits a bid for a contract to disclose criminal history record information regarding that individual or sole proprietor before determining the apparent awardee; and (B) shall require, as a condition of receiving a Federal contract and receiving payments under such contract that the contractor may not verbally, or through written form, request the disclosure of criminal history record information regarding an applicant for a position related to work under such contract before the contractor extends a conditional offer to the applicant. (2) Otherwise required by law The prohibition under paragraph (1) does not apply with respect to a contract if consideration of criminal history record information prior to a conditional offer with respect to the position is otherwise required by law. (3) Exception for certain positions (A) In general The prohibition under paragraph (1) does not apply with respect to— (i) a contract that requires an individual hired under the contract to access classified information or to have sensitive law enforcement or national security duties; or (ii) a position that the Administrator of General Services identifies under the regulations issued under subparagraph (B). (B) Regulations (i) Issuance Not later than 16 months after the date of enactment of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (ii) Compliance with civil rights laws The regulations issued under clause (i) shall— (I) be consistent with, and in no way supersede, restrict, or limit the application of title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ( 42 U.S.C. 2000e (II) ensure that all hiring activities conducted pursuant to the regulations are conducted in a manner consistent with relevant Federal civil rights laws. (b) Complaint procedures The Administrator of General Services shall establish and publish procedures under which an applicant for a position with a Federal contractor may submit to the Administrator a complaint, or any other information, relating to compliance by the contractor with subsection (a)(1)(B). (c) Action for violations of prohibition on criminal history inquiries (1) First violation If the head of an executive agency determines that a contractor has violated subsection (a)(1)(B), such head shall— (A) notify the contractor; (B) provide 30 days after such notification for the contractor to appeal the determination; and (C) issue a written warning to the contractor that includes a description of the violation and the additional remedies that may apply for subsequent violations. (2) Subsequent violation If the head of an executive agency determines that a contractor that was subject to paragraph (1) has committed a subsequent violation of subsection (a)(1)(B), such head shall notify the contractor, shall provide 30 days after such notification for the contractor to appeal the determination, and, in consultation with the relevant Federal agencies, may take actions, depending on the severity of the infraction and the contractor’s history of violations, including— (A) providing written guidance to the contractor that the contractor's eligibility for contracts requires compliance with this section; (B) requiring that the contractor respond within 30 days affirming that the contractor is taking steps to comply with this section; and (C) suspending payment under the contract for which the applicant was being considered until the contractor demonstrates compliance with this section. (d) Definitions In this section: (1) Conditional offer The term conditional offer (2) Criminal history record information The term criminal history record information . (2) Clerical amendment The table of sections for chapter 47 4714. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer. . (3) Effective date Section 4714 of title 41, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1), shall apply with respect to contracts awarded pursuant to solicitations issued after the effective date described in section 702(b)(2) of this title. (b) Defense contracts (1) In general Chapter 137 section 2338 2339. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer (a) Limitation on criminal history inquiries (1) In general Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), the head of an agency— (A) may not require that an individual or sole proprietor who submits a bid for a contract to disclose criminal history record information regarding that individual or sole proprietor before determining the apparent awardee; and (B) shall require as a condition of receiving a Federal contract and receiving payments under such contract that the contractor may not verbally or through written form request the disclosure of criminal history record information regarding an applicant for a position related to work under such contract before such contractor extends a conditional offer to the applicant. (2) Otherwise required by law The prohibition under paragraph (1) does not apply with respect to a contract if consideration of criminal history record information prior to a conditional offer with respect to the position is otherwise required by law. (3) Exception for certain positions (A) In general The prohibition under paragraph (1) does not apply with respect to— (i) a contract that requires an individual hired under the contract to access classified information or to have sensitive law enforcement or national security duties; or (ii) a position that the Secretary of Defense identifies under the regulations issued under subparagraph (B). (B) Regulations (i) Issuance Not later than 16 months after the date of enactment of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (ii) Compliance with civil rights laws The regulations issued under clause (i) shall— (I) be consistent with, and in no way supersede, restrict, or limit the application of title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ( 42 U.S.C. 2000e (II) ensure that all hiring activities conducted pursuant to the regulations are conducted in a manner consistent with relevant Federal civil rights laws. (b) Complaint procedures The Secretary of Defense shall establish and publish procedures under which an applicant for a position with a Department of Defense contractor may submit a complaint, or any other information, relating to compliance by the contractor with subsection (a)(1)(B). (c) Action for violations of prohibition on criminal history inquiries (1) First violation If the Secretary of Defense determines that a contractor has violated subsection (a)(1)(B), the Secretary shall— (A) notify the contractor; (B) provide 30 days after such notification for the contractor to appeal the determination; and (C) issue a written warning to the contractor that includes a description of the violation and the additional remedies that may apply for subsequent violations. (2) Subsequent violations If the Secretary of Defense determines that a contractor that was subject to paragraph (1) has committed a subsequent violation of subsection (a)(1)(B), the Secretary shall notify the contractor, shall provide 30 days after such notification for the contractor to appeal the determination, and, in consultation with the relevant Federal agencies, may take actions, depending on the severity of the infraction and the contractor’s history of violations, including— (A) providing written guidance to the contractor that the contractor's eligibility for contracts requires compliance with this section; (B) requiring that the contractor respond within 30 days affirming that the contractor is taking steps to comply with this section; and (C) suspending payment under the contract for which the applicant was being considered until the contractor demonstrates compliance with this section. (d) Definitions In this section: (1) Conditional offer The term conditional offer (2) Criminal history record information The term criminal history record information . (2) Effective date Section 2339(a) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1), shall apply with respect to contracts awarded pursuant to solicitations issued after the effective date described in section 702(b)(2) of this title. (3) Clerical amendment The table of sections for chapter 137 section 2338 2339. Prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer. . (c) Revisions to Federal Acquisition Regulation (1) In general Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council shall revise the Federal Acquisition Regulation to implement section 4714 of title 41, United States Code, and section 2339 of title 10, United States Code, as added by this section. (2) Consistency with Office of Personnel Management regulations The Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council shall revise the Federal Acquisition Regulation under paragraph (1) to be consistent with the regulations issued by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management under section 702(b)(1) to the maximum extent practicable. The Council shall include together with such revision an explanation of any substantive modification of the Office of Personnel Management regulations, including an explanation of how such modification will more effectively implement the rights and protections under this section. 704. Report on employment of individuals formerly incarcerated in Federal prisons (a) Definition In this section, the term covered individual (1) means an individual who has completed a term of imprisonment in a Federal prison for a Federal criminal offense; and (2) does not include an alien who is or will be removed from the United States for a violation of the immigration laws (as such term is defined in section 101 of the Immigration and Nationality Act ( 8 U.S.C. 1101 (b) Study and report required The Director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in coordination with the Director of the Bureau of the Census, shall— (1) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, design and initiate a study on the employment of covered individuals after their release from Federal prison, including by collecting— (A) demographic data on covered individuals, including race, age, and sex; and (B) data on employment and earnings of covered individuals who are denied employment, including the reasons for the denials; and (2) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 5 years thereafter, submit a report that does not include any personally identifiable information on the study conducted under paragraph (1) to— (A) the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; (B) the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate; (C) the Committee on Oversight and Reform of the House of Representatives; and (D) the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives. VIII Fair Chance Licensing Act 801. Short title This title may be cited as the Fair Chance Licensing Act of 2019 802. Restrictions on use of criminal records to disqualify individuals from employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification (a) State and local requirements Section 534 of title 28, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (g) Restrictions on State and local use of criminal records To disqualify individuals from employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification (1) Definitions In this subsection— (A) the term covered entity (i) an occupational licensing authority; (ii) an occupational certification authority; and (iii) an employer or third-party entity that is authorized by Federal or State law, including title II of the Departments of State, Justice, and Commerce, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriation Act, 1973 ( Public Law 92–544 (B) the term directly related conviction (i) the position in which employment is sought; or (ii) the occupation for which an occupational license or certification is sought; (C) the term qualifying background check law (D) the term record (2) Conditions on access by State and local entities to FBI background check system (A) States An agency or official of a State may not request or access a record, including on behalf of a private entity, under any authority, unless the State has enacted a qualifying background check law or a law that is more favorable to an individual with a criminal history than a qualifying background check law. (B) Local governments An agency or official of a political subdivision of a State may not request or access a record, including on behalf of a private entity, under any authority unless the political subdivision or the State has enacted a qualifying background check law or a law that is more favorable to an individual with a criminal history than a qualifying background check law. (3) Qualifying background check law (A) Availability and use of criminal history information A qualifying background check law shall provide that a covered entity may not consider any of the following criminal history information in determining whether to disqualify an individual from employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification: (i) A conviction that is not a directly related conviction. (ii) Non-conviction information, including information related to— (I) a deferred adjudication; (II) participation in a diversion program; (III) an arrest not followed by a valid conviction; or (IV) an infraction. (iii) A conviction that has been sealed, dismissed, expunged, or pardoned. (iv) A juvenile adjudication. (v) A misdemeanor conviction for which no sentence of imprisonment can be imposed. (vi) A misdemeanor conviction that is more than 1 year old, excluding any period of incarceration or custody. (vii) A felony conviction that is more than 5 years old, excluding any period of incarceration or custody. (B) Consideration of title VII Green A qualifying background check law shall provide that a covered entity, in determining whether to disqualify an individual from employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification based on a directly related conviction, shall consider— (i) the nature and gravity of the conviction; (ii) the period of time that has elapsed since the conviction or, if applicable, completion of the sentence; and (iii) the nature of the employment, license, or certification held or sought. (C) Sufficient mitigation or rehabilitation and fitness for occupation A qualifying background check law shall provide that a covered entity may not disqualify an individual from employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification solely or in part because of a directly related conviction if the individual can establish sufficient mitigation or rehabilitation and fitness to perform the duties of the position or occupation by providing— (i) evidence showing that— (I) not less than 1 year has elapsed since the individual was released from any correctional institution without subsequent conviction of a crime; and (II) the individual has complied with all terms and conditions of probation or parole; or (ii) any other evidence of mitigation and present fitness, including— (I) the circumstances relating to the offense, including mitigating circumstances or social conditions surrounding the commission of the offense; (II) the age of the individual when the individual committed the offense; (III) the period of time that has elapsed since the individual committed the offense; (IV) evidence of work history, particularly any training or work experience related to the position or occupation; (V) additional evidence of educational, training, or work activities that the individual has participated in, including during any period of incarceration; (VI) letters of reference by persons who have been in contact with the individual since the individual was released from any correctional institution; and (VII) completion of, or active participation in, rehabilitative drug or alcohol treatment. (D) Notice of potential denial and opportunity to appeal (i) Notice of potential denial A qualifying background check law shall provide that if a covered entity intends to disqualify an individual from employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification solely or in part because of a directly related conviction, the covered entity shall, prior to making a final decision— (I) notify the individual in writing of— (aa) the directly related conviction that forms the basis for the potential disqualification; and (bb) the rationale for how the conviction is directly related to the position or occupation; (II) provide the individual a copy of the conviction history report, if any, on which the covered entity relies; and (III) provide the individual examples of mitigation or rehabilitation evidence (as described in subparagraph (C)) that the individual may voluntarily provide. (ii) Response A qualifying background check law shall provide that not later than 30 days after the date on which an individual receives a notice of potential disqualification described in clause (i), the individual may respond to the notice by— (I) challenging the accuracy of the conviction history report; or (II) submitting evidence of mitigation or rehabilitation. (iii) Final decision A qualifying background check law shall provide that a covered entity shall make a final decision based on an individualized assessment of the information described in subparagraph (C), including any information described in clause (ii) of this subparagraph submitted by the individual. (iv) Notice of final decision A qualifying background check law shall provide that if a covered entity disqualifies an individual from employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification solely or in part because of a directly related conviction, the covered entity shall notify the individual in writing of— (I) the final decision, including— (aa) a list of each directly related conviction that forms the basis for the decision; and (bb) the rationale for how the conviction is directly related to the position; (II) additional appeal procedures, if any, including opportunities for administrative or judicial review; and (III) the earliest date on which the individual may reapply for the employment, occupational license, or occupational certification. (E) Education, outreach, and transparency activities A qualifying background check law shall provide that a covered entity shall— (i) adopt education and outreach policies developed with the input of key stakeholders, including individuals with arrest and conviction records; (ii) explain to the public (including on the website of the covered entity, if applicable) how the covered entity uses criminal history information in making decisions with respect to employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification, as applicable; and (iii) offer individuals access at any time (including before obtaining any required education or training) to guidance on the impact of a conviction or arrest on the application process for employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification, as applicable. (4) Compliance review Not later than 180 days after the date on which this subsection takes effect, and semiannually thereafter, the Attorney General shall review the compliance of States and political subdivisions thereof with the requirement under paragraph (2). . (b) Federal requirements (1) Consideration of criminal history information consistent with qualifying background check law (A) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law, other than a provision described in subparagraph (B), consideration of the criminal history information of an individual for purposes of employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification of the individual, or any similar purpose, that is required or authorized under any provision of Federal law shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements described in section 534(g)(3) of title 28, United States Code, as added by subsection (a). (B) Exceptions Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to the consideration of the criminal history information of an individual under any provision of law governing— (i) Federal employment; (ii) the Armed Forces; (iii) law enforcement; or (iv) national security. (2) Relation to other law Nothing in paragraph (1) shall be construed to supersede any other provision of Federal law that imposes requirements relating to the availability and use of criminal history information that is more favorable to an individual with a criminal history than the requirements described in section 534(g)(3) of title 28, United States Code, as added by subsection (a). (3) Regulations Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the head of an agency that administers a provision of law affected by paragraph (1) shall promulgate any regulations necessary to comply with that paragraph. (c) Effective date Subsections (a) and (b)(1), the amendments made by those subsections, and the regulations promulgated under subsection (b)(3) shall take effect on the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act. 803. Transparency and accountability study (a) Bureau of Justice Statistics annual study Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter, the Bureau of Justice Statistics shall conduct a study, and submit a report to Congress on that study, that— (1) collects data on the Federal and State laws that result in the disqualification of applicants for employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification based on the criminal record of the applicant; (2) focuses on the disqualifying offenses and the racial, gender, and ethnic profile of the applicants disqualified under the laws described in paragraph (1); and (3) examines the reversal rates and impact on employment opportunities that result from the procedures to appeal a potential disqualification from employment, an occupational license, or an occupational certification required under section 802 and the amendments made by that section. (b) Data submission by Federal agencies and States A State that wishes to access to a record as described in subsection (g)(2) of section 534 of title 28, United States Code, (as added by this title) and each Federal agency that administers a provision of law affected by section 802(b) shall regularly collect and submit to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, for purposes of the annual study under subsection (a) of this section, any applicable data described in subsection (a) of this section. IX REDEEM Act 901. Short title This title may be cited as the Record Expungement Designed to Enhance Employment Act of 2019 REDEEM Act 902. Sealing of criminal records (a) Finding Congress finds that the definition of the term crime of violence Report to the Congress: Career Offender Sentencing Enhancements (b) Amendment Chapter 229 E Sealing of Criminal Records Sec. 3641. Definitions; eligible individuals. 3642. Automatic sealing of records of nonviolent drug offenses. 3643. Sealing petition. 3644. Effect of sealing order. 3641. Definitions; eligible individuals (a) Definitions In this subchapter— (1) the term covered nonviolent offense (A) a crime of violence; or (B) a sex offense, as defined in section 111 of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act ( 34 U.S.C. 20911 (2) the term crime of violence (A) has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person of another; or (B) is— (i) murder; (ii) voluntary manslaughter; (iii) kidnapping; (iv) aggravated assault; (v) a forcible sex offense; (vi) robbery; (vii) arson; (viii) extortion; or (ix) the use or unlawful possession of— (I) a firearm, as defined in section 5845(a) (II) explosive materials, as defined in section 841(c); (3) the term eligible individual (A) has been arrested for or convicted of a covered nonviolent offense; (B) in the case of a conviction described in subparagraph (A), has fulfilled each requirement of the sentence for the covered nonviolent offense, including— (i) completing each term of imprisonment, probation, or supervised release; and (ii) satisfying each condition of imprisonment, probation, or supervised release; (C) subject to subsection (b), has not been convicted of more than 2 felonies that are covered nonviolent offenses, including any such convictions that have been sealed; and (D) has not been convicted of any felony that is not a covered nonviolent offense; (4) the term petitioner (5) the term protected information (A) an arrest, conviction, or sentence of an individual for the offense; (B) the institution of criminal proceedings against an individual for the offense; or (C) the result of criminal proceedings described in subparagraph (B); (6) the term seal (A) means— (i) to close a record from public viewing so that the record cannot be examined except by court order; and (ii) to physically seal the record shut and label the record SEALED (B) has the effect described in section 3644, including— (i) the right to treat the offense to which a sealed record relates, and any arrest, criminal proceeding, conviction, or sentence relating to the offense, as if it never occurred; and (ii) protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to a sealed record; (7) the term sealing hearing (8) the term sealing petition (b) Eligible individuals (1) Multiple convictions deemed to be one conviction For purposes of subsection (a)(2)(C)— (A) multiple convictions shall be deemed to be 1 conviction if the convictions result from or relate to— (i) the same act; or (ii) acts committed at the same time; and (B) subject to paragraph (2), multiple convictions, not to exceed 3, that do not result from or relate to the same act or acts committed at the same time shall be deemed to be 1 conviction if the convictions— (i) result from or relate to— (I) the same— (aa) indictment, information, or complaint; (bb) plea of guilty; or (cc) official proceeding; or (II) related criminal acts that were committed within a 3-month period; or (ii) are determined to be directly related to addiction or a substance use disorder. (2) Discretion of court (A) In general A court reviewing a sealing petition may determine that it is not in the public interest to deem multiple convictions described in paragraph (1)(B) to be 1 conviction. (B) Reasoning If a court makes a determination under subparagraph (A), the court shall make available to the public the reasoning for the determination. (C) Reporting Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this subchapter, and each year thereafter, each district court of the United States shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that describes the exercise of discretion by the court under subparagraph (B), with all relevant data disaggregated by race, ethnicity, gender, and the nature of the offense. 3642. Automatic sealing of records of nonviolent drug offenses (a) Definition In this section, the term convicted of a nonviolent drug offense (1) means the individual is convicted of a covered nonviolent offense that is an offense under the Controlled Substances Act ( 21 U.S.C. 801 21 U.S.C. 951 chapter 705 (2) does not include a conviction with respect to which the court applied a sentencing enhancement under section 2D1.1(b)(2) of the Federal sentencing guidelines (relating to the use of violence or the threat or direction to use violence). (b) Automatic sealing Five years after the date on which an eligible individual who is convicted of a nonviolent drug offense completes every term of imprisonment, probation, or supervised release ordered by the court with respect to the offense, the court shall order the sealing of each record or portion thereof that relates to the offense if the individual— (1) has not been convicted of a crime or adjudicated delinquent for an act of juvenile delinquency since the date of the conviction; and (2) is not engaged in active criminal court proceedings or juvenile delinquency proceedings. (c) Automatic nature of sealing The order of sealing under subsection (b) shall require no action by the individual whose records are to be sealed. (d) Notice of automatic sealing A court that orders the sealing of a record of an individual under subsection (b) shall, in writing, inform the individual of the sealing and the benefits of sealing the record, including protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to the record. (e) Relation to other laws Automatic sealing under subsection (b) shall not apply to a conviction for a marijuana use or possession offense that is expunged under section 203(c) of the Marijuana Justice Act of 2019 3643. Sealing petition (a) Right To file sealing petition (1) In general On and after the date described in paragraph (2), an eligible individual may file a petition for a sealing order with respect to a covered nonviolent offense in a district court of the United States. (2) Dates The date described in this paragraph is— (A) for an eligible individual who is convicted of a covered nonviolent offense and sentenced to a term of imprisonment, probation, or supervised release, the date that is 1 year after the date on which the eligible individual has completed every such term of imprisonment, probation, or supervised release; and (B) for an eligible individual not described in subparagraph (A), the date on which the case relating to the covered nonviolent offense is disposed of. (3) Notice of opportunity to file petition (A) Convicted individuals (i) In general If an individual is convicted of a covered nonviolent offense and will potentially be eligible to file a sealing petition with respect to the offense upon fulfilling each requirement of the sentence for the offense as described in section 3641(a)(2)(B), the court in which the individual is convicted shall, in writing, inform the individual, on each date described in clause (ii), of— (I) that potential eligibility; (II) the necessary procedures for filing the sealing petition; and (III) the benefits of sealing a record, including protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to the record. (ii) Dates The dates described in this clause are— (I) the date on which the individual is convicted; and (II) the date on which the individual has completed every term of imprisonment, probation, or supervised release relating to the offense. (B) Individuals not convicted (i) Arrest only If an individual is arrested for a covered nonviolent offense, criminal proceedings are not instituted against the individual for the offense, and the individual is potentially eligible to file a sealing petition with respect to the offense, on the date on which the case relating to the offense is disposed of, the arresting authority shall, in writing, inform the individual of— (I) that potential eligibility; (II) the necessary procedures for filing the sealing petition; and (III) the benefits of sealing a record, including protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to the record. (ii) Court proceedings If an individual is arrested for a covered nonviolent offense, criminal proceedings are instituted against the individual for the offense, the individual is not convicted of the offense, and the individual is potentially eligible to file a sealing petition with respect to the offense, on the date on which the case relating to the offense is disposed of, the court in which the criminal proceedings take place shall, in writing, inform the individual of— (I) that potential eligibility; (II) the necessary procedures for filing the sealing petition; and (III) the benefits of sealing a record, including protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to the record. (b) Procedures (1) Notification to prosecutor If an individual files a petition under subsection (a) with respect to a covered nonviolent offense or arrest for a covered nonviolent offense, the district court in which the petition is filed shall provide notice of the petition— (A) to the office of the United States attorney that prosecuted or would have prosecuted the petitioner for the offense; and (B) upon the request of the petitioner, to any other individual that the petitioner determines may testify as to the— (i) conduct of the petitioner since the date of the offense or arrest; or (ii) reasons that the sealing order should be entered. (2) Hearing (A) In general Not later than 180 days after the date on which an individual files a sealing petition, the district court shall— (i) except as provided in subparagraph (D), conduct a hearing in accordance with subparagraph (B); and (ii) determine whether to enter a sealing order for the individual in accordance with paragraph (3). (B) Opportunity to testify and offer evidence (i) Petitioner The petitioner may testify or offer evidence at the sealing hearing in support of sealing. (ii) Prosecutor The office of a United States attorney that receives notice under paragraph (1)(A) may send a representative to testify or offer evidence at the sealing hearing in support of or against sealing. (iii) Other individuals An individual who receives notice under paragraph (1)(B) may testify or offer evidence at the sealing hearing as to the issues described in clauses (i) and (ii) of that paragraph. (C) Magistrate judges A magistrate judge may preside over a hearing under this paragraph. (D) Waiver of hearing If the petitioner and the United States attorney that receives notice under paragraph (1)(A) so agree, the court shall make a determination under paragraph (3) without a hearing. (3) Basis for decision (A) In general In determining whether to enter a sealing order with respect to protected information relating to a covered nonviolent offense, the court— (i) shall consider— (I) the petition and any documents in the possession of the court; and (II) all the evidence and testimony presented at the sealing hearing, if such a hearing is conducted; (ii) may not consider any non-Federal nonviolent crimes for which the petitioner has been arrested or proceeded against, or of which the petitioner has been convicted; and (iii) shall balance— (I) (aa) the interest of public knowledge and safety; and (bb) the legitimate interest, if any, of the Government in maintaining the accessibility of the protected information, including any potential impact of sealing the protected information on Federal licensure, permit, or employment restrictions; against (II) (aa) the conduct and demonstrated desire of the petitioner to be rehabilitated and positively contribute to the community; and (bb) the interest of the petitioner in having the protected information sealed, including the harm of the protected information to the ability of the petitioner to secure and maintain employment. (B) Burden on Government The burden shall be on the Government to show that the interests under subclause (I) of subparagraph (A)(iii) outweigh the interests of the petitioner under subclause (II) of that subparagraph. (4) Waiting period after denial If the district court denies a sealing petition, the petitioner may not file a new sealing petition with respect to the same offense until the date that is 2 years after the date of the denial. (5) Universal form The Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall create a universal form, available over the internet and in paper form, that an individual may use to file a sealing petition. (6) Fee waiver The Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall by regulation establish a minimally burdensome process under which indigent petitioners may obtain a waiver of any fee for filing a sealing petition. (7) Reporting Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this subchapter, and each year thereafter, each district court of the United States shall issue a public report that— (A) describes— (i) the number of sealing petitions granted and denied under this section; and (ii) the number of instances in which the office of a United States attorney supported or opposed a sealing petition; (B) includes any supporting data that the court determines relevant and that does not name any petitioner; and (C) disaggregates all relevant data by race, ethnicity, gender, and the nature of the offense. (8) Public defender eligibility (A) In general The district court may, in its discretion, appoint counsel in accordance with the plan of the district court in operation under section 3006A to represent a petitioner for purposes of this section. (B) Considerations In making a determination whether to appoint counsel under subparagraph (A), the court shall consider— (i) the anticipated complexity of the sealing hearing, including the number and type of witnesses called to advocate against the sealing of the protected information of the petitioner; and (ii) the potential for adverse testimony by a victim or a representative of the office of the United States attorney. 3644. Effect of sealing order (a) In general Except as provided in this section, if a district court of the United States enters a sealing order with respect to a covered nonviolent offense, the offense and any arrest, criminal proceeding, conviction, or sentence relating to the offense shall be treated as if it never occurred. (b) Verification of sealing If a district court of the United States enters a sealing order with respect to a covered nonviolent offense, the court shall— (1) send a copy of the sealing order to each entity or person known to the court that possesses a record containing protected information that relates to the offense, including each— (A) law enforcement agency; and (B) public or private correctional or detention facility; (2) in the sealing order, require each entity or person described in paragraph (1) to— (A) seal the record in accordance with this section; and (B) submit a written certification to the court, under penalty of perjury, that the entity or person has sealed each paper and electronic copy of the record; (3) seal each paper and electronic copy of the record in the possession of the court; and (4) after receiving a written certification from each entity or person under paragraph (2)(B), notify the petitioner that each entity or person described in paragraph (1) has sealed each paper and electronic copy of the record. (c) Protection from perjury laws Except as provided in subsection (f)(3)(A), a petitioner with respect to whom a sealing order has been entered for a covered nonviolent offense shall not be subject to prosecution under any civil or criminal provision of Federal or State law relating to perjury, false swearing, or making a false statement, including section 1001, 1621, 1622, or 1623, for failing to recite or acknowledge any protected information with respect to the offense or respond to any inquiry made of the petitioner, relating to the protected information, for any purpose. (d) Attorney General nonpublic records The Attorney General— (1) shall maintain a nonpublic record of all protected information that has been sealed under this subchapter; and (2) may access or use protected information only— (A) for legitimate investigative purposes; (B) in defense of any civil suit arising out of the facts of the arrest or subsequent proceedings; or (C) if the Attorney General determines that disclosure is necessary to serve the interests of justice, public safety, or national security. (e) Law enforcement access A Federal or State law enforcement agency may access a record that is sealed under this subchapter solely— (1) to determine whether the individual to whom the record relates is eligible for a first-time-offender diversion program; (2) for investigatory, prosecutorial, or Federal supervision purposes; or (3) for a background check that relates to law enforcement employment or any employment that requires a government security clearance. (f) Prohibition on disclosure (1) Prohibition Except as provided in paragraph (3), it shall be unlawful to intentionally make or attempt to make an unauthorized disclosure of any protected information from a record that has been sealed under this subchapter. (2) Penalty Any person who violates paragraph (1) shall be fined under this title, imprisoned for not more than 1 year, or both. (3) Exceptions (A) Background checks An individual who is the subject of a record sealed under this subchapter shall, and a Federal or State law enforcement agency that possesses such a record may, disclose the record in the case of a background check for— (i) law enforcement employment; or (ii) any position that a Federal agency designates as a— (I) national security position; or (II) high-risk, public trust position. (B) Disclosure to Armed Forces A person may disclose protected information from a record sealed under this subchapter to the Secretaries of the military departments (or the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy) for the purpose of vetting an enlistment or commission, or with regard to any member of the Armed Forces. (C) Criminal and juvenile proceedings A prosecutor may disclose protected information from a record sealed under this subchapter if the information pertains to a potential witness in a Federal or State— (i) criminal proceeding; or (ii) juvenile delinquency proceeding. (D) Authorization for individual to disclose own record An individual who is the subject of a record sealed under this subchapter may choose to disclose the record. . (c) Applicability Sections 3642 and 3643 of title 18, United States Code, as added by subsection (b), shall apply with respect to a covered nonviolent offense (as defined in section 3641(a) of such title) that is committed or alleged to have been committed before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act. (d) Transition period for hearings deadline During the 1-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act, section 3643(b)(2)(A) of title 18, United States Code, as added by subsection (b), shall be applied by substituting 1 year 180 days (e) Technical and conforming amendment The table of subchapters for chapter 229 E. Sealing of Criminal Records 3641 . 903. Juvenile sealing and expungement (a) Purpose The purpose of this section is to— (1) protect children and adults against damage stemming from their juvenile acts and subsequent juvenile delinquency records, including law enforcement, arrest, and court records; and (2) prevent the unauthorized use or disclosure of confidential juvenile delinquency records and any potential employment, financial, psychological, or other harm that would result from such unauthorized use or disclosure. (b) Definitions Section 5031 of title 18, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: 5031. Definitions In this chapter— (1) the term adjudication (2) the term conviction (3) the term destroy (4) the term expunge (A) means to destroy a record and obliterate the name of the person to whom the record pertains from each official index or public record; and (B) has the effect described in section 5045(c), including— (i) the right to treat an offense to which an expunged record relates, and any arrest, juvenile delinquency proceeding, adjudication, or other result of such proceeding relating to the offense, as if it never occurred; and (ii) protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to an expunged record; (5) the term expungement hearing (6) the term expungement petition (7) the term juvenile (A) except as provided in subparagraph (B), a person who has not attained the age of 18; and (B) for the purpose of proceedings and disposition under this chapter for an alleged act of juvenile delinquency, a person who has not attained the age of 21; (8) the term juvenile delinquency (9) the term juvenile nonviolent offense (A) a violent crime (as defined in section 103 of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 ( 34 U.S.C. 11103 (B) a sex offense (as defined in section 111 of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act ( 34 U.S.C. 20911 (10) the term juvenile record (A) means a record maintained by a court, the probation system, a law enforcement agency, or any other government agency, of the juvenile delinquency proceedings of a person; and (B) includes— (i) a juvenile legal file, including a formal document such as a petition, notice, motion, legal memorandum, order, or decree; (ii) a social record, including— (I) a record of a probation officer; (II) a record of any government agency that keeps records relating to juvenile delinquency; (III) a medical record; (IV) a psychiatric or psychological record; (V) a birth certificate; (VI) an education record, including an individualized education plan; (VII) a detention record; (VIII) demographic information that identifies a juvenile or the family of a juvenile; or (IX) any other record that includes personally identifiable information that may be associated with a juvenile delinquency proceeding, an act of juvenile delinquency, or an alleged act of juvenile delinquency; (iii) a law enforcement record, including— (I) fingerprints; (II) a DNA sample; or (III) a photograph; and (iv) a State criminal justice information system record; (11) the term petitioner (12) the term seal (A) means— (i) to close a record from public viewing so that the record cannot be examined except by court order; and (ii) to physically seal the record shut and label the record SEALED (B) has the effect described in section 5044(c), including— (i) the right to treat an offense to which a sealed record relates, and any arrest, juvenile delinquency proceeding, adjudication, or other result of such proceeding relating to the offense, as if it never occurred; and (ii) protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to a sealed record; (13) the term sealing hearing (14) the term sealing petition . (c) Confidentiality Section 5038 of title 18, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), in the flush text following paragraph (6), by inserting after bonding, participation in an educational system, (2) in subsection (b), by striking District courts exercising jurisdiction over any juvenile Not later than 7 days after the date on which a district court exercises jurisdiction over a juvenile, the district court (d) Sealing; expungement (1) In general Chapter 403 5044. Sealing (a) Automatic sealing of nonviolent offenses (1) In general Three years after the date on which a person who is adjudicated delinquent under this chapter for a juvenile nonviolent offense completes every term of probation, official detention, or juvenile delinquent supervision ordered by the court with respect to the offense, the court shall order the sealing of each juvenile record or portion thereof that relates to the offense if the person— (A) has not been convicted of a crime or adjudicated delinquent for an act of juvenile delinquency since the date of the disposition; and (B) is not engaged in active criminal court proceedings or juvenile delinquency proceedings. (2) Automatic nature of sealing The order of sealing under paragraph (1) shall require no action by the person whose juvenile records are to be sealed. (3) Notice of automatic sealing A court that orders the sealing of a juvenile record of a person under paragraph (1) shall, in writing, inform the person of the sealing and the benefits of sealing the record, including protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to the record. (b) Petitioning for early sealing of nonviolent offenses (1) Right to file sealing petition (A) In general During the 3-year period beginning on the date on which a person who is adjudicated delinquent under this chapter for a juvenile nonviolent offense completes every term of probation, official detention, or juvenile delinquent supervision ordered by the court with respect to the offense, the person may petition the court to seal the juvenile records that relate to the offense. (B) Notice of opportunity to file petition If a person is adjudged delinquent for a juvenile nonviolent offense, the court in which the person is adjudged delinquent shall, in writing, inform the person of the potential eligibility of the person to file a sealing petition with respect to the offense upon completing every term of probation, official detention, or juvenile delinquent supervision ordered by the court with respect to the offense, and the necessary procedures for filing the sealing petition— (i) on the date on which the individual is adjudged delinquent; and (ii) on the date on which the individual has completed every term of probation, official detention, or juvenile delinquent supervision ordered by the court with respect to the offense. (2) Procedures (A) Notification to prosecutor If a person files a sealing petition with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense, the court in which the petition is filed shall provide notice of the petition— (i) to the Attorney General; and (ii) upon the request of the petitioner, to any other individual that the petitioner determines may testify as to— (I) the conduct of the petitioner since the date of the offense; or (II) the reasons that the sealing order should be entered. (B) Hearing (i) In general Not later than 180 days after the date on which a person files a sealing petition, the court shall— (I) except as provided in clause (iii), conduct a hearing in accordance with clause (ii); and (II) determine whether to enter a sealing order for the person in accordance with subparagraph (C). (ii) Opportunity to testify and offer evidence (I) Petitioner The petitioner may testify or offer evidence at the sealing hearing in support of sealing. (II) Prosecutor The Attorney General may send a representative to testify or offer evidence at the sealing hearing in support of or against sealing. (III) Other individuals An individual who receives notice under subparagraph (A)(ii) may testify or offer evidence at the sealing hearing as to the issues described in subclauses (I) and (II) of that subparagraph. (iii) Waiver of hearing If the petitioner and the Attorney General so agree, the court shall make a determination under subparagraph (C) without a hearing. (C) Basis for decision The court shall determine whether to grant the sealing petition after considering— (i) the sealing petition and any documents in the possession of the court; (ii) all the evidence and testimony presented at the sealing hearing, if such a hearing is conducted; (iii) the best interests of the petitioner; (iv) the age of the petitioner during his or her contact with the court or any law enforcement agency; (v) the nature of the juvenile nonviolent offense; (vi) the disposition of the case; (vii) the manner in which the petitioner participated in any court-ordered rehabilitative programming or supervised services; (viii) the length of the time period during which the petitioner has been without contact with any court or law enforcement agency; (ix) whether the petitioner has had any criminal or juvenile delinquency involvement since the disposition of the juvenile delinquency proceeding; and (x) the adverse consequences the petitioner may suffer if the petition is not granted. (D) Waiting period after denial If the court denies a sealing petition, the petitioner may not file a new sealing petition with respect to the same juvenile nonviolent offense until the date that is 2 years after the date of the denial. (E) Universal form The Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall create a universal form, available over the internet and in paper form, that an individual may use to file a sealing petition. (F) No fee for sealing There shall be no cost for filing a sealing petition. (G) Reporting Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this section, and each year thereafter, each district court of the United States shall issue a public report that— (i) describes— (I) the number of sealing petitions granted and denied under this subsection; and (II) the number of instances in which the Attorney General supported or opposed a sealing petition; (ii) includes any supporting data that the court determines relevant and that does not name any petitioner; and (iii) disaggregates all relevant data by race, ethnicity, gender, and the nature of the offense. (H) Public defender eligibility (i) Petitioners under age 18 The district court shall appoint counsel in accordance with the plan of the district court in operation under section 3006A to represent a petitioner for purposes of this subsection if the petitioner is less than 18 years of age. (ii) Petitioners age 18 and older (I) Discretion of court In the case of a petitioner who not less than 18 years of age, the district court may, in its discretion, appoint counsel in accordance with the plan of the district court in operation under section 3006A to represent the petitioner for purposes of this subsection. (II) Considerations In determining whether to appoint counsel under subclause (I), the court shall consider— (aa) the anticipated complexity of the sealing hearing, including the number and type of witnesses called to advocate against the sealing of the records of the petitioner; and (bb) the potential for adverse testimony by a victim or a representative of the Attorney General. (c) Effect of sealing order (1) In general Except as provided in this subsection, if a court orders the sealing of a juvenile record under subsection (a) or (b) with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense, the offense and any arrest, juvenile delinquency proceeding, adjudication, or other result of such proceeding relating to the offense shall be treated as if it never occurred. (2) Verification of sealing If a court orders the sealing of a juvenile record under subsection (a) or (b) with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense, the court shall— (A) send a copy of the sealing order to each entity or person known to the court that possesses a record relating to the offense, including each— (i) law enforcement agency; and (ii) public or private correctional or detention facility; (B) in the sealing order, require each entity or person described in subparagraph (A) to— (i) seal the record; and (ii) submit a written certification to the court, under penalty of perjury, that the entity or person has sealed each paper and electronic copy of the record; (C) seal each paper and electronic copy of the record in the possession of the court; and (D) after receiving a written certification from each entity or person under subparagraph (B)(ii), notify the petitioner that each entity or person described in subparagraph (A) has sealed each paper and electronic copy of the record. (3) Protection from perjury laws Except as provided in paragraph (5)(C)(i), the person who is the subject of a juvenile record sealed under subsection (a) or (b) or a parent of the person shall not be subject to prosecution under any civil or criminal provision of Federal or State law relating to perjury, false swearing, or making a false statement, including section 1001, 1621, 1622, or 1623, for failing to acknowledge the record or respond to any inquiry made of the person or the parent, relating to the record, for any purpose. (4) Law enforcement access to sealed records A law enforcement agency may access a sealed juvenile record of a person solely— (A) to determine whether the person is eligible for a first-time-offender diversion program; (B) for investigatory or prosecutorial purposes within the juvenile justice system; or (C) for a background check that relates to— (i) law enforcement employment; or (ii) any position that a Federal agency designates as a— (I) national security position; or (II) high-risk, public trust position. (5) Prohibition on disclosure (A) Prohibition Except as provided in subparagraph (C), it shall be unlawful to intentionally make or attempt to make an unauthorized disclosure of any information from a sealed juvenile record in violation of this section. (B) Penalty Any person who violates subparagraph (A) shall be fined under this title, imprisoned for not more than 1 year, or both. (C) Exceptions (i) Background checks A person who is the subject of a juvenile record sealed under this section shall, and a Federal or State law enforcement agency that possesses such a record may, disclose the record in the case of a background check for— (I) law enforcement employment; or (II) any employment that requires a government security clearance. (ii) Disclosure to Armed Forces A person may disclose information from a sealed juvenile record to the Secretaries of the military departments (or the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect to the Coast Guard when it is not operating as a service in the Navy) for the purpose of vetting an enlistment or commission, or with regard to any member of the Armed Forces. (iii) Criminal and juvenile proceedings A prosecutor may disclose information from a juvenile record sealed under this section if the information pertains to a potential witness in a Federal or State— (I) criminal proceeding; or (II) juvenile delinquency proceeding. (iv) Authorization for person to disclose own record A person who is the subject of a juvenile record sealed under this section may choose to disclose the record. 5045. Expungement (a) Automatic expungement of certain records (1) Attorney General motion (A) Nonviolent offenses committed before a person turned 15 If a person is adjudicated delinquent under this chapter for a juvenile nonviolent offense committed before the person attained 15 years of age, on the date on which the person attains 18 years of age, the Attorney General shall file a motion in the district court of the United States in which the person was adjudicated delinquent requesting that each juvenile record of the person that relates to the offense be expunged. (B) Arrests If a juvenile is arrested for an offense for which a juvenile delinquency proceeding is not instituted under this subchapter, the Attorney General shall file a motion in the district court of the United States that would have had jurisdiction of the proceeding requesting that each juvenile record relating to the arrest be expunged. (C) Expungement order Upon the filing of a motion in a district court of the United States with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense under subparagraph (A) or an arrest for an offense under subparagraph (B), the court shall grant the motion and order that each juvenile record relating to the offense or arrest, as applicable, be expunged. (2) Dismissed cases If a district court of the United States dismisses an information with respect to a juvenile under this subchapter or finds a juvenile not to be delinquent in a juvenile delinquency proceeding under this subchapter, the court shall concurrently order that each juvenile record relating to the applicable proceeding be expunged. (3) Automatic nature of expungement An order of expungement under paragraph (1)(C) or (2) shall not require any action by the person whose records are to be expunged. (4) Notice of automatic expungement A court that orders the expungement of a juvenile record of a person under paragraph (1)(C) or (2) shall, in writing, inform the person of the expungement and the benefits of expunging the record, including protection from civil and criminal perjury, false swearing, and false statement laws with respect to the record. (b) Petitioning for expungement of nonviolent offenses (1) In general A person who is adjudged delinquent under this chapter for a juvenile nonviolent offense committed on or after the date on which the person attained 15 years of age may petition the court in which the proceeding took place to order the expungement of the juvenile record that relates to the offense. (2) Procedures (A) Notification of prosecutor and victims If a person files an expungement petition with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense, the court in which the petition is filed shall provide notice of the petition— (i) to the Attorney General; and (ii) upon the request of the petitioner, to any other individual that the petitioner determines may testify as to— (I) the conduct of the petitioner since the date of the offense; or (II) the reasons that the expungement order should be entered. (B) Hearing (i) In general Not later than 180 days after the date on which a person files an expungement petition, the court shall— (I) except as provided in clause (iii), conduct a hearing in accordance with clause (ii); and (II) determine whether to enter an expungement order for the person in accordance with subparagraph (C). (ii) Opportunity to testify and offer evidence (I) Petitioner The petitioner may testify or offer evidence at the expungement hearing in support of expungement. (II) Prosecutor The Attorney General may send a representative to testify or offer evidence at the expungement hearing in support of or against expungement. (III) Other individuals An individual who receives notice under subparagraph (A)(ii) may testify or offer evidence at the expungement hearing as to the issues described in subclauses (I) and (II) of that subparagraph. (C) Basis for decision The court shall determine whether to grant an ex­punge­ment petition after considering— (i) the petition and any documents in the possession of the court; (ii) all the evidence and testimony presented at the expungement hearing, if such a hearing is conducted; (iii) the best interests of the petitioner; (iv) the age of the petitioner during his or her contact with the court or any law enforcement agency; (v) the nature of the juvenile nonviolent offense; (vi) the disposition of the case; (vii) the manner in which the petitioner participated in any court-ordered rehabilitative programming or supervised services; (viii) the length of the time period during which the petitioner has been without contact with any court or any law enforcement agency; (ix) whether the petitioner has had any criminal or juvenile delinquency involvement since the disposition of the juvenile delinquency proceeding; and (x) the adverse consequences the petitioner may suffer if the petition is not granted. (D) Waiting period after denial If the court denies an expungement petition, the petitioner may not file a new expungement petition with respect to the same offense until the date that is 2 years after the date of the denial. (E) Universal form The Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall create a universal form, available over the internet and in paper form, that an individual may use to file an expungement petition. (F) No fee for expungement There shall be no cost for filing an expungement petition. (G) Reporting Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this section, and each year thereafter, each district court of the United States shall issue a public report that— (i) describes— (I) the number of expungement petitions granted and denied under this subsection; and (II) the number of instances in which the Attorney General supported or opposed an expungement petition; (ii) includes any supporting data that the court determines relevant and that does not name any petitioner; and (iii) disaggregates all relevant data by race, ethnicity, gender, and the nature of the offense. (H) Public defender eligibility (i) Petitioners under age 18 The district court shall appoint counsel in accordance with the plan of the district court in operation under section 3006A to represent a petitioner for purposes of this subsection if the petitioner is less than 18 years of age. (ii) Petitioners age 18 and older (I) Discretion of court In the case of a petitioner who not less than 18 years of age, the district court may, in its discretion, appoint counsel in accordance with the plan of the district court in operation under section 3006A to represent the petitioner for purposes of this subsection. (II) Considerations In determining whether to appoint counsel under subclause (I), the court shall consider— (aa) the anticipated complexity of the expungement hearing, including the number and type of witnesses called to advocate against the expungement of the records of the petitioner; and (bb) the potential for adverse testimony by a victim or a representative of the Attorney General. (c) Effect of expunged juvenile record (1) In general Except as provided in this subsection, if a court orders the expungement of a juvenile record under subsection (a) or (b) with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense— (A) the offense and any arrest, juvenile delinquency proceeding, adjudication, or other result of such proceeding relating to the offense shall be treated as if it never occurred; and (B) the person to whom the record pertains shall not be required to disclose the existence of the record. (2) Verification of expungement If a court orders the expungement of a juvenile record under subsection (a) or (b) with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense, the court shall— (A) send a copy of the expungement order to each entity or person known to the court that possesses a record relating to the offense, including each— (i) law enforcement agency; and (ii) public or private correctional or detention facility; (B) in the expungement order, require each entity or person described in subparagraph (A) to— (i) destroy the record; and (ii) submit a written certification to the court, under penalty of perjury, that the entity or person has destroyed each paper and electronic copy of the record; (C) destroy each paper and electronic copy of the record in the possession of the court; and (D) after receiving a written certification from each entity or person under subparagraph (B)(ii), notify the petitioner that each entity or person described in subparagraph (A) has destroyed each paper and electronic copy of the record. (3) Reply to inquiries In the case of an inquiry relating to a juvenile record of a person that is expunged under this section, the court in which the proceeding took place, each law enforcement officer, any agency that provided treatment or rehabilitation services to the person, and the person (except as provided in paragraph (6)) shall reply to the inquiry that no such juvenile record exists. (4) Protection from perjury laws Except as provided in paragraph (5), if a juvenile record of a person is expunged under this section, the person who is the subject of the record or a parent of the person shall not be subject to prosecution under any civil or criminal provision of Federal or State law relating to perjury, false swearing, or making a false statement, including section 1001, 1621, 1622, or 1623, for failing to acknowledge the record or respond to any inquiry made of the person or the parent, relating to the record, for any purpose. (5) Civil actions (A) In general If a person whose juvenile record is expunged under this section brings an action that might be defended with the contents of the record, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the defendant has a complete defense to the action. (B) Showing by plaintiff In an action described in subparagraph (A), the plaintiff may rebut the presumption of a complete defense by showing that the contents of the expunged record would not prevent the defendant from being liable. (C) Duty to testify as to existence of record The court in which an action described in subparagraph (A) is filed may require the plaintiff to state under oath whether the plaintiff had a juvenile record and whether the record was expunged. (D) Proof of existence of juvenile record If the plaintiff in an action described in subparagraph (A) denies the existence of a juvenile record, the defendant may prove the existence of the record in any manner compatible with the applicable laws of evidence. (6) Criminal and juvenile proceedings A prosecutor may disclose information from a juvenile record expunged under this section if the information pertains to a potential witness in a Federal or State— (A) criminal proceeding; or (B) juvenile delinquency proceeding. (7) Authorization for person to disclose own record A person who is the subject of a juvenile record expunged under this section may choose to disclose the record. . (2) Technical and conforming amendment The table of sections for chapter 403 5044. Sealing. 5045. Expungement. . (3) Applicability Sections 5044 and 5045 of title 18, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1), shall apply with respect to a juvenile nonviolent offense (as defined in section 5031 of such title, as amended by subsection (b)) that is committed or alleged to have been committed before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Juvenile solitary confinement Chapter 403 5043. Juvenile solitary confinement (a) Definitions In this section— (1) the term covered juvenile (A) a juvenile who— (i) is being proceeded against under this chapter for an alleged act of juvenile delinquency; or (ii) has been adjudicated delinquent under this chapter; or (B) a juvenile who is being proceeded against as an adult in a district court of the United States for an alleged criminal offense; (2) the term juvenile facility (A) committed pursuant to an adjudication of delinquency under this chapter; or (B) detained prior to disposition or conviction; and (3) the term room confinement (b) Prohibition on room confinement in juvenile facilities (1) In general The use of room confinement at a juvenile facility for discipline, punishment, retaliation, or any reason other than as a temporary response to a covered juvenile's behavior that poses a serious and immediate risk of physical harm to any individual, including the covered juvenile, is prohibited. (2) Juveniles posing risk of harm (A) Requirement to use least restrictive techniques (i) In general Before a staff member of a juvenile facility places a covered juvenile in room confinement, the staff member shall attempt to use less restrictive techniques, including— (I) talking with the covered juvenile in an attempt to de-escalate the situation; and (II) permitting a qualified mental health professional, or a staff member who has received training in de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed care, to talk to the covered juvenile. (ii) Explanation If, after attempting to use less restrictive techniques as required under clause (i), a staff member of a juvenile facility decides to place a covered juvenile in room confinement, the staff member shall first— (I) explain to the covered juvenile the reasons for the room confinement; and (II) inform the covered juvenile that release from room confinement will occur— (aa) immediately when the covered juvenile regains self-control, as described in subparagraph (B)(i); or (bb) not later than after the expiration of the time period described in subclause (I) or (II) of subparagraph (B)(ii), as applicable. (B) Maximum period of confinement If a covered juvenile is placed in room confinement because the covered juvenile poses a serious and immediate risk of physical harm to himself or herself, or to others, the covered juvenile shall be released— (i) immediately when the covered juvenile has sufficiently gained control so as to no longer engage in behavior that threatens serious and immediate risk of physical harm to himself or herself, or to others; or (ii) if a covered juvenile does not sufficiently gain control as described in clause (i), not later than— (I) 3 hours after being placed in room confinement, in the case of a covered juvenile who poses a serious and immediate risk of physical harm to others; or (II) 30 minutes after being placed in room confinement, in the case of a covered juvenile who poses a serious and immediate risk of physical harm only to himself or herself. (C) Risk of harm after maximum period of confinement If, after the applicable maximum period of confinement under subclause (I) or (II) of subparagraph (B)(ii) has expired, a covered juvenile continues to pose a serious and immediate risk of physical harm described in that subclause— (i) the covered juvenile shall be transferred immediately to another juvenile facility or internal location where services can be provided to the covered juvenile without relying on room confinement; or (ii) if a qualified mental health professional believes the level of crisis service needed is not currently available, a staff member of the juvenile facility shall immediately transport the juvenile to— (I) an emergency medical facility; or (II) an equivalent location that can meet the needs of the covered juvenile. (D) Action before expiration of time limit Nothing in subparagraph (C) shall be construed to prohibit an action described in clause (i) or (ii) of that subparagraph from being taken before the applicable maximum period of confinement under subclause (I) or (II) of subparagraph (B)(ii) has expired. (E) Conditions A room used for room confinement for a juvenile shall— (i) have not less than 80 square feet of floor space; (ii) have adequate lighting, heating or cooling (as applicable), and ventilation for the comfort of the juvenile; (iii) be suicide-resistant and protrusion-free; and (iv) have access to clean potable water, toilet facilities, and hygiene supplies. (F) Notice (i) Use of room confinement Not later than 1 business day after the date on which a juvenile facility places a covered juvenile in room confinement, the juvenile facility shall provide notice to the attorney of record for the juvenile. (ii) Transfer Not later than 24 hours after a covered juvenile is transferred from a juvenile facility to another location, the juvenile facility shall provide notice to— (I) the attorney of record for the juvenile; and (II) an authorized parent or guardian of the juvenile. (G) Spirit and purpose The use of consecutive periods of room confinement to evade the spirit and purpose of this subsection shall be prohibited. (c) Study and report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this section, and each year thereafter, the Attorney General shall submit to Congress a report that— (1) contains a detailed description of the type of physical force, restraints, and room confinement used at juvenile facilities; (2) describes the number of instances in which physical force, restraints, or room confinement are used at juvenile facilities, disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender; and (3) contains a detailed description of steps taken, in each instance in which room confinement is used at a juvenile facility, to address and remedy the underlying issue that led to behavioral intervention resulting in the use of room confinement, including any positive or negative outcomes. . 904. Study and report on cost savings from sealing and expungement provisions (a) Study (1) In general Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall conduct a study on the cost savings and broader economic impact of the sealing and expungement provisions in the amendments made by sections 902, 903, and 906 of this title. (2) Considerations In conducting the study under paragraph (1), the Attorney General shall consider— (A) the reduction in recidivism and associated cost savings related to corrections and public safety; (B) increased economic activity by former offenders, including by conducting an analysis of the tax revenue generated by that activity; and (C) the economic impact on the household of former offenders and the children of former offenders. (b) Report Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall submit to Congress a report on the study conducted under subsection (a). 905. TANF assistance and SNAP benefits (a) Repeal of ban on assistance Section 115 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 ( 21 U.S.C. 862a (b) Effect on State elections To opt out or limit period of prohibition (1) Definitions In this subsection— (A) the term State 21 U.S.C. 862a(e) (B) the term TANF assistance or SNAP benefits (2) Effect A law enacted by a State under the authority under subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (d)(1) of section 115 of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 ( 21 U.S.C. 862a 906. State incentives (a) COPS grants priority Section 1701 of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 ( 34 U.S.C. 10381 (1) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (2), by striking or (B) in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; or (C) by adding at the end the following: (4) subject to subsection (n)(1), from an applicant in a State that has in effect— (A) a law relating to the confidentiality, sealing, and expungement of juvenile records that is substantially similar to, or more generous to the former offender than, the amendments made by subsections (b) through (d) of section 903 of the Record Expungement Designed to Enhance Employment Act of 2019 (B) a law prohibiting juvenile solitary confinement that is substantially similar to, or more restrictive than, the amendment made by subsection (e) of section 903 of the Record Expungement Designed to Enhance Employment Act of 2019 (C) a law relating to the sealing of adult records that is substantially similar to, or more generous to the former offender than, the amendments made by section 902 of the Record Expungement Designed to Enhance Employment Act of 2019 (D) subject to subsection (n)(2), a law that establishes that an adult criminal court may not have original jurisdiction over an individual who was less than 18 years of age when the individual committed an offense; (E) a law that allows an individual who has successfully sealed or expunged a criminal record to be free from civil and criminal perjury laws; or (F) a law or policy that ensures to the maximum extent practicable, for juveniles who have been arrested for or convicted of a criminal offense— (i) equal sentencing guidelines, without regard to gender; and (ii) equal access, without regard to gender, to services, assistance, or benefits provided. ; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (n) Rules for preferential consideration of States with laws similar to REDEEM Act (1) Degree of priority commensurate with degree of compliance If the Attorney General, in awarding grants under this part, gives preferential consideration to any application as authorized under subsection (c)(4), the Attorney General shall base the degree of preferential consideration given to an application from an applicant in a particular State on the number of subparagraphs under that subsection that the State has satisfied, relative to the number of such subparagraphs that each other State has satisfied. (2) Juvenile transfer provisions Subsection (c)(4)(D) shall not be construed to preclude from preferential consideration an application from an applicant in a State that— (A) has in effect a law that authorizes the transfer of an individual who is less than 18 years of age to adult criminal court if the individual commits a specified offense or an offense that falls under a specified category of offenses; or (B) exercises other case-specific transfer mechanisms. . (b) Attorney General guidelines and technical assistance The Attorney General shall issue guidelines and provide technical assistance to assist States in complying with the incentive under paragraph (4) of section 1701(c) of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 ( 34 U.S.C. 10381(c) 907. Gender equality in Federal juvenile delinquency proceedings (a) Dispositions Section 5037 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (f) Gender equality (1) Policy of the United States It is the policy of the United States that there should be no disparities based on gender in dispositions of juvenile cases. (2) Directive to Sentencing Commission and courts The United States Sentencing Commission, in promulgating sentencing guidelines and policy statements applicable to dispositions of district courts exercising jurisdiction over juveniles, and the courts, in determining such dispositions, shall take care to avoid and remedy any disparities described in paragraph (1). . (b) Commitments Section 5039 of title 18, United States Code, is amended, in the second paragraph, by adding at the end the following: The Attorney General shall promulgate regulations that ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, equal access, without regard to gender, to services, assistance, or benefits provided, to juveniles who have been arrested under Federal authority, or committed pursuant to an adjudication under this chapter, for juvenile delinquency. 908. Ensuring accuracy in the FBI background check system (a) In general Section 534 of title 28, United States Code, as amended by title VIII, is amended by adding at the end the following: (h) Ensuring accuracy in the FBI background check system (1) Definitions In this subsection— (A) the term applicant (B) the term incomplete (i) indicates that an individual was arrested but does not describe the offense for which the individual was arrested; or (ii) indicates that an individual was arrested or criminal proceedings were instituted against an individual but does not include the final disposition of the arrest or of the proceedings if a final disposition has been reached; (C) the term record (D) the term reporting jurisdiction (E) the term requesting entity (i) means a person or entity that seeks the exchange of a record for civil purposes that include employment, occupational licensing, occupational certification, housing, credit, or any other type of application; and (ii) does not include a law enforcement or intelligence agency that seeks the exchange of a record for— (I) investigative purposes; or (II) purposes relating to law enforcement employment. (2) Incomplete or inaccurate records The Attorney General shall establish and enforce procedures to ensure the prompt release of accurate records exchanged for civil purposes through the records system created under this section. (3) Required procedures The procedures established under paragraph (2) shall include the following: (A) Inaccurate record or information If the Attorney General determines that a record is inaccurate, the Attorney General shall, not later than 10 days after the date on which the requesting entity requests the exchange and before the exchange is made, promptly correct the record, including by making deletions to the record if appropriate. (B) Incomplete record (i) In general If the Attorney General determines that a record is incomplete or cannot be verified, the Attorney General— (I) shall attempt to complete or verify the record; and (II) if unable to complete or verify the record, may promptly make any changes or deletions to the record. (ii) Lack of disposition of arrest For purposes of this subparagraph, an incomplete record includes a record that indicates there was an arrest and does not include the disposition of the arrest. (iii) Obtaining disposition of arrest If the Attorney General determines that a record is an incomplete record described in clause (ii), the Attorney General shall, not later than 10 days after the date on which the requesting entity requests the exchange and before the exchange is made, obtain the disposition (if any) of the arrest. (C) Notification of reporting jurisdiction The Attorney General shall notify each appropriate reporting jurisdiction of any action taken under subparagraph (A) or (B). (D) Opportunity to review records by applicant In connection with an exchange of a record under this section, the Attorney General shall— (i) obtain the consent of the applicant to exchange the record with the requesting entity; (ii) at the time of consent, notify the applicant that the applicant can obtain a copy of the record; (iii) provide to the applicant an opportunity to— (I) obtain a copy of the record upon request; and (II) challenge the accuracy and completeness of the record; (iv) promptly notify the requesting entity of any such challenge; (v) not later than 30 days after the date on which the challenge is made, complete an investigation of the challenge; (vi) provide to the applicant the specific findings and results of that investigation; (vii) promptly make any changes or deletions to the records required as a result of the challenge; and (viii) report those changes to the requesting entity. (E) Certain exchanges prohibited An exchange shall not include any record— (i) about an arrest more than 2 years old as of the date of the request for the exchange, that does not also include a disposition (if any) of that arrest; (ii) relating to an adult or juvenile non-serious offense of the sort described in section 20.32(b) of title 28, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on July 1, 2009; or (iii) to the extent the record is not clearly an arrest or a disposition of an arrest. (4) Fees The Attorney General may collect a reasonable fee for an exchange of records for civil purposes through the records system created under this section to defray the costs associated with exchanges for those purposes, including any costs associated with the investigation of inaccurate or incomplete records. . (b) Regulations on reasonable procedures Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall issue regulations to carry out section 534(h) of title 28, United States Code, as added by subsection (a). (c) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall submit to Congress a report on the implementation of subsection (h) of section 534 of title 28, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), that includes— (1) the number of exchanges of records for civil purposes made with entities in each State through the records system created under such section 534; (2) any prolonged failure of a reporting jurisdiction to comply with a request by the Attorney General for information about dispositions of arrests; and (3) the numbers of successful and unsuccessful challenges to the accuracy and completeness of records, organized by State of origination of each record. 909. Report on statutory and regulatory restrictions and disqualifications based on criminal records (a) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor and the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, shall submit to Congress a report on each Federal statute, regulation, or policy that authorizes a restriction on, or disqualification of, an applicant for employment or for a Federal license or permit based on the criminal record of the applicant. (b) Identification of information In the report submitted under subsection (a), the Attorney General shall— (1) identify each occupation, position, license, or permit to which a restriction or disqualification described in subsection (a) applies; and (2) for each occupation, position, license, or permit identified under paragraph (1), include— (A) a description of the restriction or disqualification; (B) the duration of the restriction or disqualification; (C) an evaluation of the rationale for the restriction or disqualification and its continuing usefulness; (D) the procedures, if any, to appeal, waive, or exempt the restriction or disqualification based on a showing of rehabilitation or other relevant evidence; (E) any information available about the numbers of individuals restricted or disqualified on the basis of a criminal record; and (F) the identity of the Federal agency with jurisdiction over the restriction or disqualification. X Democracy Restoration Act 1001. Short title This title may be cited as the Democracy Restoration Act of 2019 1002. Findings Congress makes the following findings: (1) The right to vote is the most basic constitutive act of citizenship. Regaining the right to vote reintegrates individuals with criminal convictions into free society, helping to enhance public safety. (2) Article I, section 4, of the Constitution of the United States grants Congress ultimate supervisory power over Federal elections, an authority which has repeatedly been upheld by the Supreme Court of the United States. (3) Basic constitutional principles of fairness and equal protection require an equal opportunity for citizens of the United States to vote in Federal elections. The right to vote may not be abridged or denied by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, gender, or previous condition of servitude. The 13th, 14th, 15th, 19th, 24th, and 26th Amendments to the Constitution of the United States empower Congress to enact measures to protect the right to vote in Federal elections. The 8th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States provides for no excessive bail to be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted. (4) There are 3 areas where discrepancies in State laws regarding criminal convictions lead to unfairness in Federal elections— (A) the lack of a uniform standard for voting in Federal elections leads to an unfair disparity and unequal participation in Federal elections based solely on where a person lives; (B) laws governing the restoration of voting rights after a criminal conviction vary throughout the country and persons in some States can easily regain their voting rights while in other States persons effectively lose their right to vote permanently; and (C) State disenfranchisement laws disproportionately impact racial and ethnic minorities. (5) Two States do not disenfranchise individuals with criminal convictions at all (Maine and Vermont), but 48 States and the District of Columbia have laws that deny convicted individuals the right to vote while they are in prison. (6) In some States disenfranchisement results from varying State laws that restrict voting while individuals are under the supervision of the criminal justice system or after they have completed a criminal sentence. In 34 States, convicted individuals may not vote while they are on parole and 30 of those States disenfranchise individuals on felony probation as well. In 10 States, a conviction can result in lifetime disenfranchisement. (7) Several States deny the right to vote to individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors. (8) In 2016, an estimated 6,100,000 citizens of the United States, or about 1 in 40 adults in the United States, could not vote as a result of a felony conviction. Of the 6,100,000 citizens barred from voting, only approximately 22 percent were in prison. By contrast, roughly 77 percent of the dis­en­fran­chised reside in their communities while on probation or parole or after having completed their sentences. Approximately 3,100,000 citizens who completed their sentences remain disenfranchised due to restrictive State laws. In six States—Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Virginia—more than 7 percent of the total population is disenfranchised. As of November 2018, the lifetime ban for felons was eliminated through a Florida ballot initiative. As a result, 1,400,000 people had their voting rights restored. (9) In those States that disenfranchise individuals post-sentence, the right to vote can be regained in theory, but in practice this possibility is often granted in a non-uniform and potentially discriminatory manner. Disenfranchised individuals must either obtain a pardon or an order from the Governor or an action by the parole or pardon board, depending on the offense and State. Individuals convicted of a Federal offense often have additional barriers to regaining voting rights. (10) State disenfranchisement laws disproportionately impact racial and ethnic minorities. As of 2016, more than 7 percent of the voting-age African-American population, or 2,200,000 African Americans, were disenfranchised. One out of every 13 African Americans were unable to vote because of felony disenfranchisement, which is a rate more than 4 times greater than non-African Americans. 7.4 percent of African Americans are dis­en­fran­chised whereas only 1.8 percent of non-African Americans were. In 2016, in 4 States—Florida (23 percent), Kentucky (22 percent), Tennessee (21 percent), and Virginia (20 percent)—more than 1 in 5 African Americans were unable to vote because of prior convictions. (11) Latino citizens are also disproportionately disenfranchised based upon their disproportionate representation in the criminal justice system. If current incarceration trends hold, the lifetime likelihood of incarceration for males born in 2011 is 17 percent for Latinos, in contrast to less than 6 percent of non-Latino White men. When analyzing the data across 10 States, Latinos generally have disproportionately higher rates of disenfranchisement compared to their presence in the voting age population. In 6 out of 10 States studied in 2003, Latinos constitute more than 10 percent of the total number of persons disenfranchised by State felony laws. In 4 States (California, 37 percent; New York, 34 percent; Texas, 30 percent; and Arizona, 27 percent), Latinos were disenfranchised by a rate of more than 25 percent. (12) Disenfranchising citizens who have been convicted of a criminal offense and who are living and working in the community serves no compelling State interest and hinders their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. (13) State disenfranchisement laws can suppress electoral participation among eligible voters by discouraging voting among family and community members of disenfranchised persons. Future electoral participation by the children of disenfranchised parents may be impacted as well. (14) The United States is the only Western democracy that permits the permanent denial of voting rights for individuals with felony convictions. 1003. Definitions In this title: (1) Correctional institution or facility The term correctional institution or facility (2) Election The term election (A) a general, special, primary, or runoff election; (B) a convention or caucus of a political party held to nominate a candidate; (C) a primary election held for the selection of delegates to a national nominating convention of a political party; or (D) a primary election held for the expression of a preference for the nomination of persons for election to the office of President. (3) Federal office The term Federal office (4) Probation The term probation (A) the individual’s freedom of movement; (B) the payment of damages by the individual; (C) periodic reporting by the individual to an officer of the court; or (D) supervision of the individual by an officer of the court. 1004. Rights of citizens The right of an individual who is a citizen of the United States to vote in any election for Federal office shall not be denied or abridged because that individual has been convicted of a criminal offense unless such individual is serving a felony sentence in a correctional institution or facility at the time of the election. 1005. Enforcement (a) Attorney general The Attorney General may, in a civil action, obtain such declaratory or injunctive relief as is necessary to remedy a violation of this title. (b) Private right of action (1) In general A person who is aggrieved by a violation of this title may provide written notice of the violation to the chief election official of the State involved. (2) Relief Except as provided in paragraph (3), if the violation is not corrected within 90 days after receipt of a notice under paragraph (1), or within 20 days after receipt of the notice if the violation occurred within 120 days before the date of an election for Federal office, the aggrieved person may, in a civil action, obtain declaratory or injunctive relief with respect to the violation. (3) Exception If the violation occurred within 30 days before the date of an election for Federal office, the aggrieved person need not provide notice to the chief election official of the State under paragraph (1) before bringing a civil action to obtain declaratory or injunctive relief with respect to the violation. 1006. Notification of restoration of voting rights (a) State notification (1) Notification On the date determined under paragraph (2), each State shall notify in writing any individual who has been convicted of a criminal offense under the law of that State that such individual has the right to vote in an election for Federal office pursuant to this title and may register to vote in any such election. (2) Date of notification (A) Felony conviction In the case of such an individual who has been convicted of a felony, the notification required under paragraph (1) shall be given on the date on which the individual— (i) is sentenced to serve only a term of probation; or (ii) is released from the custody of that State (other than to the custody of another State or the Federal Government to serve a term of imprisonment for a felony conviction). (B) Misdemeanor conviction In the case of such an individual who has been convicted of a misdemeanor, the notification required under paragraph (1) shall be given on the date on which such individual is sentenced by a State court. (b) Federal notification (1) Notification Any individual who has been convicted of a criminal offense under Federal law shall be notified in accordance with paragraph (2) that such individual has the right to vote in an election for Federal office pursuant to the this title and may register to vote in any such election. (2) Date of notification (A) Felony conviction In the case of such an individual who has been convicted of a felony, the notification required under paragraph (1) shall be given— (i) in the case of an individual who is sentenced to serve only a term of probation, by the Assistant Director for the Office of Probation and Pretrial Services of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts on the date on which the individual is sentenced; or (ii) in the case of any individual committed to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, by the Director of the Bureau of Prisons, during the period beginning on the date that is 6 months before such individual is released and ending on the date such individual is released from the custody of the Bureau of Prisons. (B) Misdemeanor conviction In the case of such an individual who has been convicted of a misdemeanor, the notification required under paragraph (1) shall be given on the date on which such individual is sentenced by a court established by an Act of Congress. 1007. Relation to other laws (a) State laws relating to voting rights Nothing in this title shall be construed to prohibit the States from enacting any State law which affords the right to vote in any election for Federal office on terms less restrictive than those established by this title. (b) Certain Federal Acts The rights and remedies established by this title are in addition to all other rights and remedies provided by law, and neither rights and remedies established by this title shall supersede, restrict, or limit the application of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 ( 52 U.S.C. 10301 52 U.S.C. 20501 1008. Federal prison funds No State, unit of local government, or other person may receive or use, to construct or otherwise improve a prison, jail, or other place of incarceration, any Federal funds unless that State, unit of local government, or person— (1) is in compliance with section 1004; and (2) has in effect a program under which each individual incarcerated in that person’s jurisdiction who is a citizen of the United States is notified, upon release from such incarceration, of that individual’s rights under section 1004. 1009. Effective date This title shall apply to citizens of the United States voting in any election for Federal office held after the date of the enactment of this Act. XI New Pathways Act 1101. Short title This title may be cited as the New Pathways Act 1102. Identification for returning citizens Section 231(b) of the Second Chance Act of 2007 ( 34 U.S.C. 60541(b) (b) Identification and release assistance for Federal prisoners (1) Definitions In this subsection— (A) the term community confinement (B) the term direct-release prisoner (C) the term noncitizen covered individual (i) means an individual in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons or sentenced to a term in community confinement who— (I) is lawfully present and eligible for employment authorization in the United States; and (II) has a document demonstrating that the individual will have a place of residence upon release; and (ii) includes an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence (as defined in section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ( 8 U.S.C. 1101(a) (D) the term United States citizen covered individual (i) a social security card; (ii) a document described in paragraph (2)(B)(ii) as proof of United States citizenship; and (iii) a document demonstrating that the individual will have a place of residence upon release. (2) Obtaining identification for United States citizens (A) In general With respect to a United States citizen covered individual, the Director shall provide a photo identification card, which shall comply with the minimum requirements described in section 202(b) of the REAL ID Act of 2005 ( 49 U.S.C. 30301 (i) the release of the United States citizen covered individual from a term of imprisonment in a Federal prison; or (ii) the release of the United States citizen covered individual from a sentence to a term in community confinement. (B) Assistance in obtaining documents (i) In general Subject to clause (iii), for the purpose of issuing an identification card under this subsection, the Director shall obtain, on behalf of United States citizen covered individuals— (I) a social security card; and (II) a document described in clause (ii) as proof of United States citizenship. (ii) Proof of United States citizenship A document described in this clause is— (I) a United States passport; (II) an original or certified copy of a birth certificate that indicates that the individual was born in the United States or a territory of the United States; (III) in the case of a United States citizen born inside the United States for whom a document described in subclause (I) or (II) is not available, any document described in subsection (a), (b), or (c) of section 435.407 of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor thereto; or (IV) in the case of a United States citizen born outside the United States, an original or certified copy of— (aa) a certificate of naturalization (Form N–550 or N–570); (bb) a consular report of birth abroad (Form FS–240); (cc) a certification of birth abroad (Form FS–545); (dd) a certification of report of birth (Form DS–1350); or (ee) a certificate of citizenship (Form N–560). (iii) Exceptions (I) Lack of response from Federal or State agency If the Director cannot obtain a copy of a document required under clause (i) because of inaction by the Federal or State agency from which the document was requested, the Director shall provide to the United States citizen covered individual— (aa) a written statement that explains what steps the Director took in trying to obtain the document; and (bb) any documents transmitted to the Director by the Federal or State agency in response to the request for the document. (II) Lack of authorization from United States citizen covered individual If the Director cannot obtain a copy of a document required under clause (i) because the United States citizen covered individual does not provide the authorization required to obtain the document, the Director shall provide a written statement to the United States citizen covered individual that explains why the document was not obtained. (C) Provision of documents Upon issuance of an identification card to a covered individual under this paragraph, the Director shall provide all documents obtained for the United States citizen covered individual under subparagraph (B). (3) Obtaining documents for noncitizens (A) In general With respect to a noncitizen covered individual, the Director shall assist in obtaining from the Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services— (i) proof of lawful status in the United States of the noncitizen covered individual; and (ii) in the case of a noncitizen covered individual who is not admitted for lawful permanent residence, an employment authorization document. (B) Assistance The assistance provided by the Director under subparagraph (A) shall include— (i) providing the noncitizen covered individual with applicable U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services forms and instructions; and (ii) assisting the noncitizen covered individual in completing and submitting such forms, together with any required supporting documentation. (C) Provision of documents Upon receipt of a document for a noncitizen covered individual under this paragraph, the Director shall provide such document to the noncitizen covered individual. (4) Assistance developing release plan At the request of a direct-release prisoner, a representative of the United States Probation System shall, prior to the release of that prisoner, help that prisoner develop a release plan. . D Police Reform XII PRIDE Act 1201. Short title This title may be cited as the Police Reporting Information, Data, and Evidence Act of 2019 PRIDE Act 1202. Definitions In this title: (1) Byrne grant program The term Byrne grant program 34 U.S.C. 10151 (2) Indian Tribe The term Indian Tribe Indian tribe 34 U.S.C. 10251 (3) Law enforcement officer The term law enforcement officer (4) State The term State 34 U.S.C. 10251 (5) Use of force The term use of force 1203. Use of force reporting (a) Reporting requirements (1) In general Beginning in the first fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act and each fiscal year thereafter in which a State or Indian Tribe receives funds under a Byrne grant program, the State or Indian Tribe shall— (A) report to the Attorney General, on a quarterly basis and pursuant to guidelines established by the Attorney General, information regarding— (i) any incident involving the shooting of a civilian by a law enforcement officer who is employed— (I) in the case of an Indian Tribe, by the Indian Tribe; or (II) in the case of a State, by the State or by a unit of local government in the State; (ii) any incident involving the shooting of a law enforcement officer described in clause (i) by a civilian; and (iii) any incident in which use of force by or against a law enforcement officer described in clause (i) occurs, which is not reported under clause (i) or (ii); (B) establish a system and a set of policies to ensure that all use of force incidents are reported by law enforcement officers; and (C) submit to the Attorney General a plan for the collection of data required to be reported under this section, including any modifications to a previously submitted data collection plan. (2) Report information required (A) In general The report required under paragraph (1)(A) shall contain information that includes, at a minimum— (i) the national origin, sex, race, ethnicity, age, physical disability, mental disability, English language proficiency, housing status, and school status of each civilian against whom a law enforcement officer used force; (ii) the date, time, and location, including zip code, of the incident and whether the jurisdiction in which the incident occurred allows for the open-carry or concealed-carry of a firearm; (iii) whether the civilian was armed, and, if so, the type of weapon the civilian had; (iv) the type of force used against the officer, the civilian, or both, including the types of weapons used; (v) the reason force was used; (vi) a description of any injuries sustained as a result of the incident; (vii) the number of officers involved in the incident; (viii) the number of civilians involved in the incident; and (ix) a brief description regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident, which shall include information on— (I) the type of force used by all involved persons; (II) the legitimate police objective necessitating the use of force; (III) the resistance encountered by each law enforcement officer involved in the incident; (IV) the efforts by law enforcement officers to— (aa) de-escalate the situation in order to avoid the use of force; or (bb) minimize the level of force used; and (V) if applicable, the reason why efforts described in subclause (IV) were not attempted. (B) Incidents reported under Death in Custody Reporting Act A State is not required to include in a report under subsection (a)(1) an incident reported by the State in accordance with section 20104(a)(2) of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 ( 34 U.S.C. 12104(a)(2) (3) Audit of use-of-force reporting Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter, each State and Indian Tribe described in paragraph (1) shall— (A) conduct an audit of the use of force incident reporting system required to be established under paragraph (1)(B); and (B) submit a report to the Attorney General on the audit conducted under subparagraph (A). (4) Compliance procedure Prior to submitting a report under paragraph (1)(A), the State or Indian Tribe submitting such report shall compare the information compiled to be reported pursuant to clause (i) of paragraph (1)(A) to open-source data records, and shall revise such report to include any incident determined to be missing from the report based on such comparison. Failure to comply with the procedures described in the previous sentence shall be considered a failure to comply with the requirements of this section. (b) Ineligibility for funds (1) In general For any fiscal year in which a State or Indian Tribe fails to comply with this section, the State or Indian Tribe, at the discretion of the Attorney General, shall be subject to not more than a 10-percent reduction of the funds that would otherwise be allocated for that fiscal year to the State or Indian Tribe under a Byrne grant program. (2) Reallocation Amounts not allocated under a Byrne grant program in accordance with paragraph (1) to a State for failure to comply with this section shall be reallocated under the Byrne grant program to States that have not failed to comply with this section. (c) Public availability of data (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter, the Attorney General shall publish, and make available to the public, a report containing the data reported to the Attorney General under this section. (2) Privacy protections Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to supersede the requirements or limitations under section 552a of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Privacy Act of 1974 (d) Guidance Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General, in coordination with the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, shall issue guidance on best practices relating to establishing standard data collection systems that capture the information required to be reported under subsection (a)(2), which shall include standard and consistent definitions for terms, including the term use of force 1204. Community and law enforcement partnership grant program (a) Grants authorized The Attorney General may make grants to eligible law enforcement agencies to be used for the activities described in subsection (c). (b) Eligibility In order to be eligible to receive a grant under this section a law enforcement agency shall— (1) be located in a State or Indian Tribe that receives funds under a Byrne grant program; (2) employ not more that 100 law enforcement officers; (3) demonstrate that the use of force policy for law enforcement officers employed by the law enforcement agency is publicly available; and (4) establish and maintain a reporting system that may be used by members of the public to report incidents of use of force to the law enforcement agency. (c) Activities described A grant made under this section may be used by a law enforcement agency for— (1) the cost of assisting the State or Indian Tribe in which the law enforcement agency is located in complying with the reporting requirements described in section 1203; (2) the cost of establishing necessary systems required to investigate and report incidents as required under subsection (b)(4); (3) public awareness campaigns designed to gain information from the public on use of force by or against law enforcement officers, including shootings, which may include tip lines, hotlines, and public service announcements; and (4) use of force training for law enforcement agencies and personnel, including training on de-escalation, implicit bias, crisis intervention techniques, and adolescent development. 1205. Compliance with reporting requirements (a) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and each year thereafter, the Attorney General shall conduct an audit and review of the information provided under this title to determine whether each State or Indian Tribe described in section 903(a)(1) is in compliance with the requirements of this title. (b) Consistency in data reporting (1) In general Any data reported under this title shall be collected and reported in a manner consistent with existing programs of the Department of Justice that collect data on law enforcement officer encounters with civilians. (2) Guidelines The Attorney General shall— (A) issue guidelines on the reporting requirement under section 1203; and (B) seek public comment before finalizing the guidelines required under subparagraph (A). 1206. Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to the Attorney General such sums as are necessary to carry out this title. XIII End Racial and Religious Profiling Act 1301. Short title This title may be cited as the End Racial and Religious Profiling Act of 2019 ERRPA 1302. Definitions In this title: (1) Covered program The term covered program (A) the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program under part E of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 ( 34 U.S.C. 10151 (B) the Cops on the Beat 34 U.S.C. 10381 (2) Governmental body The term governmental body (3) Hit rate The term hit rate (4) Indian Tribe The term Indian Tribe Indian tribe 25 U.S.C. 5130 (5) Law enforcement agency The term law enforcement agency (6) Law enforcement agent The term law enforcement agent (7) Racial profiling The term racial profiling (8) Routine or spontaneous investigatory activities The term routine or spontaneous investigatory activities (A) Interviews. (B) Traffic stops. (C) Pedestrian stops. (D) Frisks and other types of body searches. (E) Consensual or nonconsensual searches of the persons, property, or possessions (including vehicles) of individuals using any form of public or private transportation, including motorists and pedestrians. (F) Data collection and analysis, assessments, and predicated investigations. (G) Inspections and interviews of entrants into the United States that are more extensive than those customarily carried out. (H) Immigration-related workplace investigations. (I) Such other types of law enforcement encounters compiled for or by the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics. (9) Reasonable request The term reasonable request (A) are immaterial to the investigation; (B) would result in the unnecessary disclosure of personal information; or (C) would place a severe burden on the resources of the law enforcement agency given its size. (10) State The term State (11) Unit of local government The term unit of local government (A) any city, county, township, town, borough, parish, village, or other general purpose political subdivision of a State; (B) any law enforcement district or judicial enforcement district that— (i) is established under applicable State law; and (ii) has the authority to, in a manner independent of other State entities, establish a budget and impose taxes; or (C) any Indian Tribe that performs law enforcement functions, as determined by the Secretary of the Interior. A Prohibition of Racial Profiling 1311. Prohibition No law enforcement agent or law enforcement agency shall engage in racial profiling. 1312. Enforcement (a) Remedy The United States, or an individual injured by racial profiling, may enforce this subtitle in a civil action for declaratory or injunctive relief, filed either in a State court of general jurisdiction or in a district court of the United States. (b) Parties In any action brought under this subtitle, relief may be obtained against— (1) any governmental body that employed any law enforcement agent who engaged in racial profiling; (2) any agent of such body who engaged in racial profiling; and (3) any person with supervisory authority over such agent. (c) Nature of proof Proof that the routine or spontaneous investigatory activities of law enforcement agents in a jurisdiction have had a disparate impact on individuals with a particular characteristic described in section 1302(7) shall constitute prima facie evidence of a violation of this subtitle. (d) Attorney’s fees In any action or proceeding to enforce this subtitle against any governmental body, the court may allow a prevailing plaintiff, other than the United States, reasonable attorney’s fees as part of the costs, and may include expert fees as part of the attorney’s fee. B Programs To Eliminate Racial Profiling By Federal Law Enforcement Agencies 1321. Policies to eliminate racial profiling (a) In general Federal law enforcement agencies shall— (1) maintain adequate policies and procedures designed to eliminate racial profiling; and (2) cease existing practices that permit racial profiling. (b) Policies The policies and procedures described in subsection (a)(1) (1) a prohibition on racial profiling; (2) training on racial profiling issues as part of Federal law enforcement training; (3) the collection of data in accordance with the regulations issued by the Attorney General under section 1341; (4) procedures for receiving, investigating, and responding meaningfully to complaints alleging racial profiling by law enforcement agents; and (5) any other policies and procedures the Attorney General determines to be necessary to eliminate racial profiling by Federal law enforcement agencies. C Programs To Eliminate Racial Profiling By State, Local, and Indian Tribal Law Enforcement Agencies 1331. Policies required for grants (a) In general An application by a State, a unit of local government, or a State, local, or Indian Tribal law enforcement agency for funding under a covered program shall include a certification that such State, unit of local government, or law enforcement agency, and any law enforcement agency to which it will distribute funds— (1) maintains adequate policies and procedures designed to eliminate racial profiling; and (2) has eliminated any existing practices that permit or encourage racial profiling. (b) Policies The policies and procedures described in subsection (a)(1) (1) a prohibition on racial profiling; (2) training on racial profiling issues as part of law enforcement training; (3) the collection of data in accordance with the regulations issued by the Attorney General under section 1341; and (4) participation in an administrative complaint procedure or independent audit program that meets the requirements of section 1332 (c) Effective date This section shall take effect 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act. 1332. Involvement of Attorney General (a) Regulations (1) In general Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act and in consultation with stakeholders, including Federal, State, Tribal, and local law enforcement agencies and community, professional, research, and civil rights organizations, the Attorney General shall issue regulations for the operation of administrative complaint procedures and independent audit programs to ensure that such programs and procedures provide an appropriate response to allegations of racial profiling by law enforcement agents or agencies. (2) Guidelines The regulations issued under paragraph (1) (b) Noncompliance If the Attorney General determines that the recipient of a grant from any covered program is not in compliance with the requirements of section 1331 subsection (a) (c) Private parties The Attorney General shall provide notice and an opportunity for private parties to present evidence to the Attorney General that a recipient of a grant from any covered program is not in compliance with the requirements of this subtitle. 1333. Data collection demonstration project (a) Competitive awards (1) In general The Attorney General may, through competitive grants or contracts, carry out a 2-year demonstration project for the purpose of developing and implementing data collection programs on the hit rates for stops and searches by law enforcement agencies. The data collected shall be disaggregated by race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, and religion. (2) Number of grants The Attorney General shall provide not more than 5 grants or contracts under this section. (3) Eligible grantees Grants or contracts under this section shall be awarded to law enforcement agencies that serve communities where there is a significant concentration of racial or ethnic minorities and that are not already collecting data voluntarily. (b) Required activities Activities carried out with a grant under this section shall include— (1) developing a data collection tool and reporting the compiled data to the Attorney General; and (2) training of law enforcement personnel on data collection, particularly for data collection on hit rates for stops and searches. (c) Evaluation Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall enter into a contract with an institution of higher education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001 (d) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out activities under this section— (1) $5,000,000, over a 2-year period, to carry out the demonstration program under subsection (a) (2) $500,000 to carry out the evaluation under subsection (c) 1334. Best practices development grants (a) Grant authorization The Attorney General, through the Bureau of Justice Assistance, may make grants to States, local law enforcement agencies, and units of local government to develop and implement best practice devices and systems to eliminate racial profiling. (b) Use of funds The funds provided under subsection (a) (1) The development and implementation of training to prevent racial profiling and to encourage more respectful interaction with the public. (2) The acquisition and use of technology to facilitate the accurate collection and analysis of data. (3) The development and acquisition of feedback systems and technologies that identify officers or units of officers engaged in, or at risk of engaging in, racial profiling or other misconduct. (4) The establishment and maintenance of an administrative complaint procedure or independent auditor program. (c) Equitable distribution The Attorney General shall ensure that grants under this section are awarded in a manner that reserves an equitable share of funding for small and rural law enforcement agencies. (d) Application Each State, local law enforcement agency, or unit of local government desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Attorney General at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Attorney General may reasonably require. 1335. Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this subtitle. D Data Collection 1341. Attorney General to issue regulations (a) Regulations Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General, in consultation with stakeholders, including Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies and community, professional, research, and civil rights organizations, shall issue regulations for the collection and compilation of data under sections 1321 and 1331. (b) Requirements The regulations issued under subsection (a) (1) provide for the collection of data on all routine or spontaneous investigatory activities; (2) provide that the data collected shall— (A) be collected by race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, and religion, as perceived by the law enforcement officer; (B) include the date, time, and location of such investigatory activities; (C) include detail sufficient to permit an analysis of whether a law enforcement agency is engaging in racial profiling; and (D) not include personally identifiable information; (3) provide that a standardized form shall be made available to law enforcement agencies for the submission of collected data to the Department of Justice; (4) provide that law enforcement agencies shall compile data on the standardized form made available under paragraph (3) (5) provide that law enforcement agencies shall maintain all data collected under this title for not less than 4 years; (6) include guidelines for setting comparative benchmarks, consistent with best practices, against which collected data shall be measured; (7) provide that the Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics shall— (A) analyze the data for any statistically significant disparities, including— (i) disparities in the percentage of drivers or pedestrians stopped relative to the proportion of the population passing through the neighborhood; (ii) disparities in the hit rate; and (iii) disparities in the frequency of searches performed on racial or ethnic minority drivers and the frequency of searches performed on nonminority drivers; and (B) not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter— (i) prepare a report regarding the findings of the analysis conducted under subparagraph (A) (ii) provide such report to Congress; and (iii) make such report available to the public, including on a website of the Department of Justice; and (8) protect the privacy of individuals whose data is collected by— (A) limiting the use of the data collected under this title to the purposes set forth in this title; (B) except as otherwise provided in this title, limiting access to the data collected under this title to those Federal, State, local, or Tribal employees or agents who require such access in order to fulfill the purposes for the data set forth in this title; (C) requiring contractors or other nongovernmental agents who are permitted access to the data collected under this title to sign use agreements incorporating the use and disclosure restrictions set forth in subparagraph (A); and (D) requiring the maintenance of adequate security measures to prevent unauthorized access to the data collected under this title. 1342. Publication of data The Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics shall provide to Congress and make available to the public, together with each annual report described in section 1341 1343. Limitations on publication of data The name or identifying information of a law enforcement officer, complainant, or any other individual involved in any activity for which data is collected and compiled under this title shall not be— (1) released to the public; (2) disclosed to any person, except for— (A) such disclosures as are necessary to comply with this title; (B) disclosures of information regarding a particular person to that person; or (C) disclosures pursuant to litigation; or (3) subject to disclosure under section 552 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the Freedom of Information Act), except for disclosures of information regarding a particular person to that person. E Department of Justice Regulations and Reports on Racial Profiling in the United States 1351. Attorney General to issue regulations and reports (a) Regulations In addition to the regulations required under sections 1333 and 1341, the Attorney General shall issue such other regulations as the Attorney General determines are necessary to implement this title. (b) Reports (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Attorney General shall submit to Congress a report on racial profiling by law enforcement agencies. (2) Scope Each report submitted under paragraph (1) (A) a summary of data collected under sections 1321(b)(3) and 1331(b)(3) and from any other reliable source of information regarding racial profiling in the United States; (B) a discussion of the findings in the most recent report prepared by the Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics under section 1341(b)(7); (C) the status of the adoption and implementation of policies and procedures by Federal law enforcement agencies under section 1321 and by the State and local law enforcement agencies under sections 1331 and 1332; and (D) a description of any other policies and procedures that the Attorney General believes would facilitate the elimination of racial profiling. F Miscellaneous Provisions 1361. Severability If any provision of this title, or the application of such a provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this title and the application of the remaining provisions of this title to any person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. 1362. Savings clause Nothing in this title shall be construed— (1) to limit legal or administrative remedies under section 1979 of the Revised Statutes of the United States ( 42 U.S.C. 1983 34 U.S.C. 12601 34 U.S.C. 10101 42 U.S.C. 2000d (2) to affect any Federal, State, or Tribal law that applies to an Indian Tribe because of the political status of the tribe; or (3) to waive the sovereign immunity of an Indian Tribe without the consent of the tribe.

Summary: Next Step Act of 2019 This bill revises sentencing guidelines, addresses prison conditions and prisoner reentry, and addresses law enforcement training. First, it eliminates increased and mandatory minimum penalties for drug offenses involving mixtures or substances which contain cocaine base (i.e., crack cocaine). It decriminalizes marijuana by (1) removing marijuana from the list of scheduled substances; (2) eliminating criminal penalties for an individual who imports, exports, manufactures, distributes, or possesses with intent to distribute marijuana; and (3) expunging convictions for marijuana use or possession. It reduces the mandatory minimum prison term for defendants who manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Additionally, the bill requires the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to provide videoconferencing free of charge to prisoners; prohibits federal agencies from requesting that applicants disclose their criminal history before receiving a conditional offer of employment; restricts the use of criminal records to disqualify individuals from employment, occupational licensing, or occupational certification; creates a mechanism by which certain eligible individuals may file a petition to seal federal criminal records for certain nonviolent offenses; reinstates the right to vote in federal elections for persons convicted of criminal offenses; revises requirements for the BOP to help prisoners obtain identification documents prior to their release; establishes and revises certain grants; requires a state or tribe that receives certain funding to report on use-of-force incidents involving a law enforcement officer and a civilian; and prohibits racial profiling by law enforcement.