SB451 Summary

• Creates a new Chapter 2 in Arkansas Code Title 17 establishing uniform standards for criminal background checks and disqualifying offenses across all occupational licensing entities in the state.

• Defines a comprehensive list of 36 specific felonies and misdemeanors that permanently disqualify individuals from licensure due to their serious nature, including violent crimes, sexual offenses, and crimes against children.

• Allows licensing entities to waive disqualification for non-violent/non-sexual offenses based on factors including time elapsed, rehabilitation efforts, employment history, and relevance to the profession (generally up to 5 years after conviction).

• Prohibits licensing entities from using vague terms like "moral turpitude" or "good character" as standalone bases for denial and prevents consideration of arrests without convictions.

• Amends numerous existing occupational licensing statutes across healthcare, construction, real estate, and other professions to reference the new standardized criminal background check framework.