HB3184 - Illinois New Business Owner Act

• Prohibits state and local agencies from automatically denying business licenses based solely on an applicant's prior criminal conviction or finding of lack of good moral character.

• Allows license denial only if the agency determines both that a direct relationship exists between the conviction and the specific license sought AND that issuing the license would pose a substantial risk to property or public safety.

• Requires agencies to consider 10 specific factors when reviewing applications from individuals with criminal histories, including time elapsed since offense, age at time of offense, rehabilitation evidence, and seriousness of the offense.

• Creates a rebuttable presumption of rehabilitation for applicants who possess a certificate of relief from disabilities or certificate of good conduct.

• Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.