PONTIAC, Mich., Aug. 24, 2021 — Yesterday, Gov. Whitmer signed House Bills 4219 and 4220 into law. The legislation will allow Michiganders to expunge a first violation of operating while intoxicated (OWI) under certain circumstances. Roughly 200,000 Michiganders are expected to have the opportunity for a second chance at a clean record. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in support:
“We all make mistakes — that is a part of the human condition — but no one should be defined by their worst or lowest moment. Opening up the doors for increased expungement opportunities not only rewards those who have put in the work to turn their lives around but also gives those struggling to make those changes hope and incentive to keep working. This is a great day for our state and criminal justice reform.”