Louisiana House Bill HB593

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Refer: 4/12/10
• Refer: 4/13/10
• Report Pass: 4/28/10

Caption

Authorizes the La. Real Estate Commission to conduct criminal background checks

Impact

The passage of HB 593 would significantly impact the licensing landscape for real estate professionals in Louisiana by introducing a layer of background verification that was previously not mandated. This move aims to prevent individuals with significant criminal histories from obtaining licenses, addressing concerns regarding public safety and the integrity of individuals working within the real estate sector. By facilitating background checks, the bill seeks to uphold ethical standards and bolster consumer confidence in licensed real estate activities.

Summary

House Bill 593 seeks to authorize the Louisiana Real Estate Commission to conduct criminal background checks on applicants seeking licensure as real estate brokers or salespersons. This legislation amends the existing laws concerning the licensing requirements for real estate professionals, mandating that applicants submit a full set of fingerprints and authorize the commission to obtain both state and national criminal history record information. The bill aims to enhance the scrutiny of applicants to ensure that individuals licensed to engage in real estate activities uphold public trust and safety.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding HB 593 tends to be supportive among those who prioritize ethical considerations in the real estate industry. Advocates argue that thorough background checks are essential for maintaining professional standards and protecting the interests of consumers. However, there may also be concerns regarding privacy and the potential for overreach in how the commission handles the information gathered through these background checks. Opponents could argue that while ensuring safety is paramount, such measures might deter potential good candidates from entering the profession due to past indiscretions.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounds the confidentiality of the criminal history information gathered as part of the background checks. The bill stipulates that nonpublic information obtained through these checks is restricted to the exclusive use of the commission and shall not be disclosed unless consented to by the applicant or required by court order. This raises questions about the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights, as well as the criteria used to determine an applicant's 'suitability' for licensure.