HARPER WOODS, Mich., Aug. 27, 2021 — Gov. Whitmer signed House Bills 4219 and 4220 into law earlier this week. 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. Tenisha Yancey (D-Harper Woods), the sponsor of HB 4219, issued the following statement:
“Since coming to the Legislature, I have been dedicated to expanding and improving access to expungement for Michiganders. I know how important it is today to be seen for who you are, and many who made mistakes in the past are never given that chance. This legislation will open the doors of opportunity and new lives for hundreds of thousands of Michiganders. This is so much more than a chance at a job or education; it is an opportunity to be seen, not as who you were in the past but who you are now, after working to improve and learn from your mistakes. I can assure you the impact that has on a person is immeasurable.”