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 issuance and revocation of these certificates be public records and requires the Division to notify incoming prisoners about the opportunity to earn such certificates.

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 involved. The bill clarifies that a certificate can be used as evidence in negligence claims related to hiring practices, while also stating that it does not exempt individuals from certain legal obligations, such as sex offender registration or licensing issues. Overall, the bill seeks to facilitate reintegration into society for individuals with felony convictions by providing a formal recognition of their employability.