AL HB238

Amends Alabama law to restrict occupational licensing boards from denying applications based on criminal convictions unrelated to job duties or convictions that have been pardoned, sealed, or expunged.

Requires occupational licensing boards to consider specific factors when evaluating criminal convictions, including the crime's nature, time passed since conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Creates a process for individuals to petition circuit courts for "orders of limited relief" from prior convictions, which create a presumption of rehabilitation for licensing purposes and provide employer immunity from negligent hiring claims.

Establishes a "certificate of employability" issued by the Board of Pardons and Paroles to incarcerated individuals meeting eligibility criteria prior to parole release, granting similar presumptions and employer protections.

Effective October 1, 2025; excludes sex offenders and violent offenders from obtaining orders of limited relief or certificates of employability; does not apply to law enforcement, driver licenses, or interstate licensure compacts.