FL S1318

Allows persons with criminal backgrounds to seek binding declaratory statements from licensing agencies determining eligibility for occupational or professional licenses before meeting prerequisites, with agency conclusions binding unless subsequent criminal history provides independent grounds for denial.

Prohibits convictions more than 5 years old from being grounds for denying barber, cosmetologist, and specified construction contractor licenses under chapters 476, 477, and 489, except for crimes under chapter 812 or as provided in section 435.07(4).

Prohibits convictions more than 7 years old from being grounds for denying certified nursing assistant certificates or failing background screenings, with similar exceptions.

Permits confined or supervised applicants to apply for licenses or certificates without additional fees, allows boards to stay issuance until lawful release, requires Department of Corrections verification, and mandates teleconference or video conference options for applicants unable to appear in person.

Authorizes the Department of Corrections and counties to contract with educational providers for inmate workforce and career education programs; modifies restrictions on state funding for inmate education to allow funding for inmates with more than 48 months remaining on their sentences.