CO HB1023

Amends Colorado law to restrict the use of an employee's criminal history as evidence in civil lawsuits against employers based on the employee's conduct.

Criminal history evidence cannot be introduced in civil actions if the criminal history has no direct relationship to the facts of the case, or if the record was sealed, the employee received a pardon, the charge resulted in no conviction, or a deferred judgment was not revoked.

Does not override statutory requirements for criminal background investigations or criminal history consideration in hiring for specific types of employment.

Legislative findings establish that clarifying employer liability encourages hiring of persons with criminal records, which reduces recidivism and promotes economic opportunity and public safety.

Took effect 90 days after final adjournment of the 2010 general assembly, subject to referendum petition provisions.