The bill amends the Occupational Code to update the terms of office for members of various professional boards, specifying that these terms will begin on designated dates for each profession, such as July 1 for Accountancy and January 1 for Cosmetology. It also introduces Article 14A, which establishes new licensing requirements for professional guardians and conservators. These requirements include age, educational qualifications, criminal background checks, and the necessity for professional liability insurance. Individuals seeking licensure must complete an application, pass a national certification exam, and fulfill continuing education requirements. The bill also mandates that the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs maintain a list of licensed professionals and prohibits guardians and conservators from employing individuals with certain criminal convictions.

Additionally, the bill revises existing laws regarding the employment of professional guardians and conservators, particularly focusing on criminal history checks for potential employees. It requires that if a conditional employee's background check does not confirm their identity or criminal history, their employment must be terminated. Individuals providing false information in this context may face misdemeanor charges. The bill also mandates that employees report any arraignments or convictions for specified offenses to their employers and establishes a system for the Department of State Police to store fingerprints and notify employers of any subsequent criminal activity. A web-based system will assist employers in conducting criminal history checks, with a potential one-time setup fee for access. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of another related bill.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 339.303
House Introduced Bill: 339.303
As Passed by the House: 339.303