SB 1159 Summary

• Requires licensing boards to accept either an individual tax identification number (ITIN) or social security number from individual applicants by January 1, 2016, instead of requiring only social security numbers.

• Prohibits the Department of Consumer Affairs and its boards from denying licensure based on applicant citizenship status or immigration status.

• Mandates licensing boards report applicants who fail to provide required tax identification numbers to the Franchise Tax Board and assess a $100 penalty after 30-day notice.

• Requires all boards to implement necessary regulatory and procedural changes by January 1, 2016 to accommodate ITIN acceptance and non-discrimination requirements.

• Protects tax identification information from public disclosure and restricts access except for child support enforcement and tax compliance purposes.