This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes related to human services background studies, specifically addressing the disqualification of individuals with expunged criminal records. The key provision prohibits the commissioner from permanently disqualifying individuals based on a record of conviction that has been expunged under the court's inherent authority or any underlying fact related to the expunged conviction. However, this does not apply to offenses requiring registration under section 243.166. The bill introduces this language in multiple sections, including 245C.14, 245C.15, 245C.16, and 245C.24, ensuring that individuals with expunged records are not automatically barred from positions involving direct contact with persons receiving services.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the commissioner must consider the immediate risk of harm posed by individuals with disqualifying characteristics while also ensuring that those with expunged convictions are not permanently disqualified. The amendments aim to balance the need for safety in human services settings with the recognition of individuals' rights to move beyond past convictions that have been legally expunged. Overall, the bill seeks to create a more equitable framework for evaluating individuals subject to background studies in Minnesota's human services sector.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 245C.14, 245C.15, 245C.16, 245C.24