The proposed bill aims to establish a Certificate of Employability for individuals with felony convictions, allowing both the Division of Correction and circuit courts to issue these certificates. The bill introduces a new subchapter in Arkansas Code Title 16, Chapter 90, detailing the criteria for issuance by the Division of Correction, which includes successful completion of educational or vocational programs while incarcerated, a clean disciplinary record prior to release, and passing a job skills assessment. The certificate will be issued upon release and remains valid unless revoked due to subsequent felony convictions or other specified reasons. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Division of Correction notify incoming prisoners about the certificate's availability and submit an annual report on its issuance and recidivism rates.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the process for individuals to petition circuit courts for a Certificate of Employability, including notification of the prosecuting attorney and the possibility of imposing conditions on the certificate. It also establishes procedures for revocation of the certificate by the court, including the right to a hearing for the individual affected. The bill emphasizes that the issuance and revocation of these certificates will be public records and introduces penalties for misrepresentation regarding the certificate's validity. Importantly, the bill clarifies that holding a Certificate of Employability does not exempt individuals from certain legal obligations, such as sex offender registration or licensing issues related to substance use disorders.