SB264 Summary: Fresh Start Act of 2019

• Establishes the Fresh Start Act to help individuals with criminal records obtain occupational licenses by prohibiting licensing entities from using vague terms like "moral turpitude" and "good character" as disqualification criteria.

• Requires licensing entities to explicitly list specific criminal convictions that directly relate to job duties and responsibilities; convictions unrelated to the occupation cannot be used to deny licensure.

• Implements a 5-year disqualification period for non-violent criminal convictions, with exceptions for violent/sexual offenses or multiple felony convictions that pose serious public safety risks.

• Mandates licensing entities use preponderance of evidence standard and consider mitigating factors including nature of offense, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation when evaluating applicants with disqualifying convictions.

• Applies to all occupations/professions except peace officers and law enforcement; declares an emergency to allow immediate implementation and provide certainty for individuals entering occupational programs.