Louisiana House Bill HB795

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 5/12/10
• Engrossed: 5/19/10
• Refer: 5/20/10
• Report Pass: 6/2/10
• Enrolled: 6/16/10
• Chaptered: 6/30/10
• Passed: 6/30/10

Caption

Provides relative to an employer's access to conviction records of a potential employee

Impact

The implementation of HB 795 will significantly impact the employment landscape in Louisiana. By formalizing the process through which employers can access criminal background checks, the bill proposes to enhance transparency and expediency in hiring practices. It not only clarifies what constitutes conviction records but also outlines the responsibilities of the Bureau in relaying this information to employers. The bill thereby aims to create a standard procedure for background checks that could mitigate discrepancies among different employers regarding how they assess candidates with prior convictions.

Summary

House Bill 795 aims to amend the regulations surrounding an employer's access to a potential employee's conviction records in Louisiana. According to the text of the bill, employers will be allowed to obtain conviction records directly from the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information provided the applicant has signed a consent form. The bill aims to streamline the process of obtaining criminal history checks, improving the efficiency with which employers can evaluate potential hires while ensuring proper consent is obtained from applicants.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment toward HB 795 has been largely positive among employers and those advocating for more streamlined hiring practices. Supporters argue that the bill will facilitate fair employment opportunities while ensuring that the privacy and rights of applicants are respected through the requirement of consent. However, there are concerns raised by advocates of criminal justice reform regarding the potential for discrimination against individuals with criminal records, emphasizing the need for careful implementation to avoid unintended impacts on employment opportunities for those seeking rehabilitation.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 795 is the balance between safety in hiring and the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into the workforce. Critics argue that making conviction records easily accessible could lead to bias against applicants, potentially disqualifying them from job opportunities despite the principles of rehabilitation. This concern highlights the ongoing debate over privacy rights versus public safety in employment practices, complicating the legislative landscape regarding criminal background checks in Louisiana.