HB 2787 - Occupational Regulation

• Adds definition of "moral turpitude" to Arizona Revised Statutes as offenses including extortion, burglary, larceny, bribery, embezzlement, robbery, racketeering, money laundering, forgery, fraud, murder, voluntary manslaughter, or sexual offenses requiring registration under section 13-3821.

• Allows individuals with criminal records to petition state agencies at any time for a determination of whether their criminal history disqualifies them from obtaining an occupational license, permit, certificate, or state recognition.

• Restricts agencies from denying licenses based on nonconviction information, sealed/dismissed/expunged convictions, juvenile adjudications, or nonviolent misdemeanors.

• Requires agencies to issue written determinations within 90 days including findings of fact and conclusions of law, and allows applicants to reapply no earlier than two years after an initial denial.

• Clarifies that the provisions do not apply to law enforcement agencies, certain health professions under title 32, education-related certifications under title 15, fingerprint clearance cards, or interstate compact requirements.

• Specifies that private employers retain full discretion to establish their own hiring criteria and disciplinary policies independent of these occupational licensing provisions.