AZ SB1620

Prohibits Arizona institutions of higher education from requesting criminal history information on initial admissions applications, except when using third-party applications if the institution posts a notice that it will not automatically deny admission based on criminal history.

Allows institutions to inquire about criminal history only after an applicant is otherwise determined qualified for admission, and only for purposes of making admission decisions or offering supportive services.

Prohibits institutions from automatically or unreasonably denying admission or restricting campus residency based on an applicant's criminal history.

Requires each institution to develop a written process for determining whether a relationship exists between an applicant's criminal history and a specific academic program or residency, considering the applicant's age, time elapsed since the offense, nature of the offense, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Defines "criminal history" to include any record of citations, arrests, or criminal/juvenile cases filed with any court, regardless of conviction outcome.