This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to modify the process for open appointments to multimember agencies and to make these appointments subject to the "ban the box" law, which restricts inquiries about an applicant's criminal history during the hiring process. Key changes include the definition of "vacancy" to encompass new and existing positions, the introduction of terms such as "appointing authority" and "direct appointments," and the requirement for appointing authorities to notify the secretary of state about vacancies and appointments. Additionally, the bill mandates that any person may self-nominate for agency vacancies and outlines the process for submitting applications and nominations.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that appointing authorities cannot inquire about an applicant's criminal history until after the applicant has been selected for an interview or a conditional offer of appointment has been made. This aligns with the broader goal of reducing barriers for individuals with criminal records in securing appointments to public agencies. The effective date for the new provisions regarding criminal history inquiries is set for August 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 364.021
1st Engrossment: 15.0597, 351.01, 364.021, 364.06
1st Engrossment: 15.0597, 351.01, 364.021, 364.06