Relating to the consideration of criminal history record information of applicants for public employment or an occupational license.

SB 1628 restricts Texas state agencies from asking about criminal history on initial job applications for public employment or occupational licenses. It prohibits disqualification based on arrests without conviction, sealed/expunged records, or certain minor offenses (like Class C misdemeanors), and requires agencies to consider criminal history only after a conditional job offer. Before denying employment, agencies must notify applicants in writing, provide their criminal history record, and allow 10 days for applicants to submit evidence of rehabilitation. Final hiring decisions must be based on an individualized assessment of whether a conviction directly relates to the job's duties.