The bill amends section 2953.25 of the Revised Code to enhance the process for individuals seeking a certificate of qualification for employment, particularly those impacted by collateral sanctions from prior convictions. It allows individuals who have completed time in a state correctional institution or a department-funded program to petition the designee of the deputy director of the division of parole and community services for this certificate. Notably, the bill removes the requirement that individuals must finish all periods of supervision after incarceration before filing their petitions, enabling them to file one year after release for felonies or six months for misdemeanors. It also establishes a fee structure for filing petitions, with provisions for fee waivers for indigent applicants.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the criteria for courts to evaluate petitions, emphasizing a case-by-case assessment of rehabilitation and public safety impact. It introduces legal protections for employers who hire individuals with the certificate, allowing the certificate to serve as evidence of due care in hiring and granting immunity from negligence claims if the employer was aware of the certificate. The bill mandates revocation of the certificate upon felony conviction post-issuance and requires the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction to maintain a database of these certificates. Furthermore, it repeals the existing section 2953.25, streamlining the legal framework for employment qualifications for individuals with criminal records.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2953.25