Relating to inquiries about and the consideration of criminal history record information regarding an applicant for employment.
Impact
If enacted, HB2466 will amend the Texas Labor Code to establish clear guidelines for the consideration of criminal history in the employment context. Employers will only be allowed to inquire into an applicant's criminal history after a conditional job offer has been made or the applicant has been invited for an interview. This legislative change is expected to affect hiring practices across various sectors and may have positive implications for individuals with a criminal record seeking employment.
Summary
House Bill 2466 aims to regulate how employers inquire about criminal history record information during the hiring process. Specifically, the bill prohibits employers from including questions about an applicant's criminal record on initial employment applications. This approach is designed to encourage fair hiring practices, ensuring that applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications before their criminal history is considered.
Contention
The bill does allow for exceptions, as it does not apply to positions where consideration of criminal history is explicitly required by law. This detail raises points of contention regarding which job categories may still be permitted to ask about criminal history and how that could impact certain populations. The focus of the bill aligns with efforts to support reintegration and reduce barriers to employment for those with a criminal history, which may lead to broader discussions about criminal justice reform and employment equity.
Relating to inquiries into and the consideration of an applicant's criminal and disciplinary history in making admissions decisions at a public institution of higher education.
Relating to inquiries into the criminal and disciplinary history of an applicant for undergraduate admission to a public institution of higher education.
Relating to criminal history record information and certain registry information accessible to certain educational and child-care entities and information required for employment in certain child-care facilities.