MS SB2342

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

Exempts public employers required by state or federal law to obtain criminal history (such as positions involving direct interaction with minors or elderly) and excludes private employers and the legal profession from the act's requirements.

Requires public employers to consider five criteria before employment decisions based on criminal history: nature and gravity of offense, time elapsed since offense, applicant's age at time of offense, relationship to job duties, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Prohibits disqualification based solely on arrests that did not result in conviction and requires employers to inform applicants of adverse employment decisions and provide an opportunity to challenge inaccurate background information.

Establishes jurisdiction for violations in the circuit court of the First Judicial District of Hinds County, effective July 1, 2023.