The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to allow the chief judge of the Office of Administrative Hearings to set aside certain permanent disqualifications related to background studies. Specifically, it introduces provisions that enable both the commissioner and the chief judge to consider an individual's risk of harm to others when determining whether to set aside a disqualification. The criteria for this assessment include the nature of the disqualifying event, the age and vulnerability of the victim, the time elapsed since the event, and the individual's completion of relevant training or rehabilitation. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of familial relationships for individuals seeking child foster care licenses and outlines specific conditions under which individuals in the substance use disorder treatment field may have their disqualifications reconsidered.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new framework for permanent disqualifications, allowing the chief judge to set aside disqualifications for certain crimes or conduct if specific conditions are met, such as the absence of subsequent convictions and the passage of time since the completion of a sentence. However, it explicitly prohibits the setting aside of disqualifications for serious offenses, including murder, manslaughter, and crimes against children. The amendments aim to provide a more nuanced approach to background checks, balancing public safety with the potential for rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals into the workforce.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 245C.22, 245C.24