The bill amends Section 28-2-5 of the New Mexico Statutes to clarify that the Criminal Offender Employment Act does not apply to specific agencies, including law enforcement agencies, the early childhood education and care department, agencies hiring caregivers, the children, youth and families department, and the public education department. This exemption allows these agencies to operate outside the constraints of the Criminal Offender Employment Act when considering applicants for employment or licensure.

Additionally, the bill mandates that exempt agencies must create rules regarding criminal history screening to determine eligibility for employment or licensure. It also includes a declaration of emergency, indicating that the act is necessary for the public peace, health, and safety, and therefore should take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 28-2-5
Final Version: 28-2-5