The bill amends R.S.33:1-26 to refine employment eligibility criteria for individuals seeking jobs with licensed businesses, particularly in alcohol sales. It prohibits the employment of individuals under the age of majority by licensees, with exceptions for those who may not qualify due to age but can be employed with the director's approval. Additionally, individuals with prior convictions of moral turpitude can be employed by Class C licensees without director approval, provided they do not have direct interaction with alcoholic beverages. The bill also mandates that applicants submit fingerprints and consent to a criminal history background check, which will be considered in determining their employment eligibility. Furthermore, it modifies the process for handling criminal history records, allowing airport operators and other licensees to access this information for employment assessments.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for individuals with suspended driver's licenses, enabling them to apply for restricted use licenses for employment or educational purposes, subject to court approval. It prohibits state, county, or municipal employers from requiring applicants to disclose criminal convictions on job applications while still permitting necessary background checks. The bill also establishes protections against discrimination for ex-convicts in employment settings, restricting employers from denying jobs based solely on prior convictions unless there is a direct relationship to the job or an unreasonable safety risk. Factors such as the time elapsed since the offense and evidence of rehabilitation must be considered by employers, and a certificate of rehabilitation will create a presumption of rehabilitation, enhancing employment opportunities for individuals with criminal histories. The Commission on Civil Rights will oversee the enforcement of these provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:1-100