S.B. No. 1053 aims to amend the Occupations Code in Texas regarding the impact of criminal convictions on a person's eligibility for occupational licenses. The bill introduces new sections, specifically Sections 53.004 and 53.005, which require licensing authorities to provide notice to applicants about how prior criminal convictions may affect their ability to obtain a license. This notice must be included in application forms and on the authority's website, detailing the factors that determine disqualification and the rights of students to request a criminal history evaluation letter. Additionally, Section 53.005 mandates that licensing authorities maintain records of applications received, approved, and denied, particularly those denied due to criminal convictions, and submit an annual report to the legislature.

The bill also modifies existing sections, including Section 53.021, which now allows licensing authorities to deny or revoke licenses based on criminal convictions, and Section 53.022, which outlines the factors to consider when determining if a conviction relates to the duties of a licensed occupation. Importantly, the bill establishes that the burden of proof lies with the licensing authority in hearings regarding decisions to take action based on criminal history. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply to actions taken on or after January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 53.021, Occupations Code 53.022, Occupations Code 53.023 (Occupations Code 53)