HB 4488 Summary

• Defines "good moral character" for occupational and professional licensing as the propensity to serve the public in a fair, honest, and open manner.

• Prohibits licensing boards from considering a single civil judgment against an individual as evidence of lack of good moral character; requires more than one judgment to be considered.

• Restricts use of criminal convictions in licensing decisions by requiring boards to determine the conviction has a direct relationship to the licensed activity, poses a demonstrable public safety risk, indicates likelihood of reoffense, or would cause greater harm if committed with the license.

• Carves out exceptions for child care organizations, nursing homes, adult foster care facilities, law enforcement, and bar admission, which may consider criminal convictions without meeting the above requirements.

• Prohibits licensing boards from using arrest records without conviction, reversed/vacated convictions, unrelated misdemeanors, or minor misdemeanors; requires individuals denied licenses to receive written notice with evidence and an opportunity for rehearing.

• Allows individuals to appeal licensing decisions to circuit court for review, and permits boards to continue disciplining licensees for professional misconduct or dishonesty.

• Effective April 4, 2021.