MS SB2019

Prohibits public employers in Mississippi from inquiring about an applicant's criminal history until the applicant has signed a release waiver, is being considered for a specific position, and has received an interview.

Requires public employers to consider five criteria when evaluating an applicant with a criminal history: nature and gravity of offense, time elapsed since offense, applicant's age at time of offense, relationship of offense to job duties, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Exempts public employer positions required by state or federal law to obtain criminal history, including positions involving direct interaction with minors or the elderly, and does not apply to private employers or the practice of law.

Prohibits disqualification based on arrest records that did not result in conviction and requires employers to notify applicants of adverse employment decisions based on background checks and provide opportunity to dispute inaccuracies.

Establishes jurisdiction for complaints in the Circuit Court of the First Judicial District of Hinds County; law takes effect July 1, 2021.