Don ThompsonThe Associated PressCalifornia would have what proponents call the nation’s most sweeping law to seal criminal records if Gov. Gavin Newsom signs legislation sent to him Thursday, Aug. 18, by state legislators.The bill would automatically seal conviction and arrest records for most ex-offenders who are not convicted of another felony for four years after completing their sentences and any parole or probation. Records of arrests that don’t bring convictions also would be sealed.It would take effect in July, and excludes those convicted of serious and violent felonies, and felonies requiring sex offender registration.Proponents said about 8 million Californians have a criminal or arrest record, or about one of every five state residents. A criminal record
