NC H612

Prohibits public employers in North Carolina from inquiring about or considering an applicant's criminal history until after making a conditional offer of employment.

Requires hiring authorities to evaluate any criminal conviction based on seven specific factors including crime severity, date, applicant's age at conviction, circumstances, nexus to job duties, and post-conviction rehabilitation and employment records.

Prevents disqualification from public employment based solely on prior conviction unless the conviction is substantially related to the position's qualifications and duties.

Requires hiring authorities to inform applicants of adverse decisions based on background checks and provide opportunity to challenge inaccuracies in the report.

Mandates the Office of State Personnel to track positions requiring early background checks, conduct quarterly compliance reviews, and collect public data on hiring outcomes for applicants with criminal histories.