The bill H. 3224 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 41-1-35, which prohibits job applications from including questions about criminal convictions unless the conviction directly relates to the position sought. This legislation is designed to enhance the employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records by allowing them to be considered for jobs before background checks are conducted. The bill outlines definitions for terms such as "conviction of crime," "hiring or licensing authority," and "public employment," and establishes a policy to support the rehabilitation of criminal offenders.

Additionally, the bill specifies that public and private employers cannot inquire about an applicant's criminal history until after an interview or a conditional job offer is made. It also provides guidelines for determining whether a conviction is relevant to the job, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation evidence. The legislation includes provisions for handling complaints regarding violations, with penalties for non-compliance, and clarifies that it does not apply to legal practice or judicial employment. Overall, the bill seeks to create a more equitable hiring process for individuals with prior convictions.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 41-1-35
Latest Version: 41-1-35
12/06/2024: 41-1-35