Provides for an exception for certain applicants for employee permits seeking to work in locations permitted by office of alcohol and tobacco control as a restaurant. (8/1/20)
The implementation of SB 149 could have a significant positive impact on the lives of individuals previously convicted of non-violent felonies by providing them with opportunities for employment in settings that historically may have excluded them. By allowing access to management positions in restaurants, this bill would amend existing regulations that previously barred many with a felony history from such roles, thereby promoting a second chance for these individuals while filling a vital workforce need in the restaurant sector.
Senate Bill 149, proposed by Senator Carter, addresses the qualifications for applicants seeking employee permits within restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages. It provides specific exceptions for individuals with certain felony convictions. The bill stipulates that those whose felonies do not encompass crimes of violence, distribution of controlled substances, or sex offenses may apply for permits if they have completed their sentence and have been free of further felony convictions for an established period. This aims to encourage reintegration into the workforce for individuals with past non-violent offenses, particularly in the hospitality industry.
The overall sentiment towards SB 149 appears to be supportive, emphasizing the importance of second chances and reducing barriers to employment for individuals with felony records. Advocates see it as a progressive step towards fostering inclusivity and reducing recidivism through stable employment opportunities. However, there are also concerns about the implications for public safety and the potential oversights in allowing individuals with specific felony histories to take on roles that involve the sale and management of alcohol, highlighting a tension between rehabilitation and community protection.
Notable points of contention revolve around the safety and appropriateness of allowing individuals with certain felony backgrounds to handle alcoholic beverages. Critics of the bill express concerns that despite non-violent classifications, the nature of past offenses could pose risks in environments serving alcohol. There is also a discussion surrounding the responsibilities of the Alcohol and Tobacco Control commissioner in the approval process, as the bill mandates that employment cannot commence until explicit approval is granted, which might add another layer of bureaucracy to the permitting process.