AR
Arkansas Senate Bill SB646

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB646

Introduced
4/15/25  
Refer
4/15/25  

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning Occupational And Criminal Background Checks; And To Prohibit The Disqualification Of An Occupational License Based On A Prior Conviction Of An Offense In Certain Circumstances

Impact

The implementation of SB646 would significantly alter how state regulations govern occupational licensing. Currently, many professions require extensive background checks, which can often disqualify applicants based on past criminal convictions that do not pertain directly to the responsibilities of the job. Proponents of the bill argue that these existing policies perpetuate cycles of poverty and hinder reintegration into society after incarceration. By allowing individuals with non-relevant criminal histories to pursue certain licenses, the bill aims to improve workforce participation and economic stability for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Summary

Senate Bill 646 focuses on reforming the laws surrounding occupational and criminal background checks in Arkansas. The bill explicitly prohibits the disqualification of individuals from obtaining an occupational license based solely on a prior conviction of a crime. This legislative change is intended to provide more equitable access to employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records, aligning with broader national movements toward second-chance policies.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, SB646 has raised concerns among some stakeholders who fear that loosening restrictions could potentially compromise public safety and the integrity of certain professions. Critics worry that the bill may allow individuals with relevant criminal histories—such as those applying for jobs in healthcare, security, or other sensitive fields—to gain licenses inappropriately. This has led to a debate between advocates for criminal justice reform and those prioritizing the need for stringent licensing requirements based on past offenses directly related to job functions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1251

To Clarify That Criminal Background Checks Apply To All Emergency Medical Services Personnel; And To Amend The Criminal Background Check Law To Include Offenses Prosecuted In Other States Or By Federal Courts.

AR SB90

To Create The Automatic Occupational Licensure For Out-of-state Licensure Act.

AR HB1483

To Amend The Law Concerning Retention Of Criminal Background Checks.

AR HB1082

To Establish The Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact In Arkansas.

AR SB270

To Amend The Criminal Offense Of Sexual Indecency With A Child.

AR HB1109

To Authorize The State Board Of Examiners Of Alcoholism And Drug Abuse Counselors To Require Criminal Background Checks For Applicants For Licensure.

AR SB495

To Create The Protect Arkansas Act; To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Sentencing And Parole; To Amend Arkansas Law Concerning Certain Criminal Offenses; And To Create The Legislative Recidivism Reduction Task Force.

AR SB212

To Remove The Requirement For Notarization For Requests For Criminal Background Checks That Are Required For The Licensing Of Child Welfare Agencies; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB572

To Amend Provisions Of The Arkansas Code Concerning School Employee Misconduct And Background Checks For Registered Volunteers.

AR HB1847

To Create The Second Chance Hiring Act; To Prohibit Inquiries By A State Agency Into Convictions For Possession Of A Controlled Substance In The Last Five Years; And To Amend The Law Concerning Certain Public Employees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.