Professions and Businesses; a preclearance process in the licensing of individuals with criminal records who make application to or are investigated by certain licensing boards and commissions; create

New definitions were created for 'conviction,' 'covered misdemeanor,' 'felony,' 'division,' 'division director,' and 'professional licensing board' to standardize how criminal records are evaluated across different industries.

A mandatory hearing process was added, requiring applicants to be granted a hearing before a license can be denied solely due to their criminal record.

Licensing boards are now required to provide specific evidence supporting their adverse decisions based on criminal convictions rather than making blanket denials.

The bill requires applicants to be allowed to submit their own criminal record information when applying for a license.

Firefighter eligibility rules were modified to allow individuals who pleaded guilty under first offender treatment to potentially be certified and employed if the council deems them qualified.

New reporting requirements were added to mandate annual reports on applications, predeterminations, and conviction records be filed with the Secretary of State.

The bill introduces a new preclearance process for individuals with criminal records seeking licensure, including provisions for predetermination decisions.