FL S1012

Prohibits denial of a state license, permit, or certification based solely on an arrest not followed by a conviction, while allowing agencies to defer decisions on applications when criminal charges are pending

Limits license denial based on prior convictions to specific categories: forcible felonies, fiduciary duty breaches, fraudulent practices under Chapter 817, and felonies or first-degree misdemeanors where conviction or incarceration ended less than 3 years before the agency began reviewing the application

Requires state agencies to find by clear and convincing evidence that granting a license would pose a direct and substantial risk to public safety, considering 12 mitigating factors including age at time of offense, rehabilitation efforts, time elapsed since the crime, employment history, and family responsibilities

Allows individuals with prior convictions to apply at any time—including while incarcerated or under supervision—for a preliminary determination on whether their conviction disqualifies them, with a favorable decision binding on the agency for 7 years if the applicant later completes all qualifications

Requires state agencies to post annual reports beginning March 1, 2025, detailing the total number of applications from individuals with prior convictions, the number denied and the crimes cited, and the number granted despite a criminal record, effective July 1, 2024