88R12456 KKR-D By: Manuel, Reynolds, Rose, H.B. No. 3246 González of Dallas, Longoria A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT relating to inquiries about and the consideration of criminal history record information regarding applicants for employment. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Chapter 52, Labor Code, is amended by adding Subchapter H to read as follows: SUBCHAPTER H. CONSIDERATION OF CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD INFORMATION IN HIRING PROCESS Sec. 52.081. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter: (1) "Applicant" means a person who has made an oral or written application with an employer, or has sent a resume or other correspondence to an employer, indicating an interest in employment. (2) "Criminal history record information" has the meaning assigned by Section 411.082, Government Code. (3) "Employer" has the meaning assigned by Section 21.002. Sec. 52.082. EMPLOYER INQUIRIES INTO AND CONSIDERATION OF CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD INFORMATION. (a) An employer may not include a question regarding an applicant's criminal history record information on an initial employment application form. (b) An employer may inquire into or consider an applicant's criminal history record information after the employer has determined that the applicant is otherwise qualified and has conditionally offered the applicant employment or has invited the applicant to an interview. Sec. 52.083. NONAPPLICABILITY. This subchapter does not apply to an applicant for a position for which consideration of criminal history record information is required by law. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.