SB1166 is a bill that seeks to modify the hiring practices of public employers in Arizona with respect to the requirements of postsecondary degrees for job applicants. The bill prohibits public employers from rejecting applicants solely for lacking a postsecondary degree, unless it is clearly demonstrated that the degree is necessary for the job's duties. It allows for the inclusion of a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to a specified number of years of direct experience, with limits ranging from two years for an associate degree to nine years for a doctoral degree.

The bill also outlines that public employers must provide written notice to applicants who are eliminated from hiring consideration, stating the reasons for not meeting the baseline requirements. Applicants who believe they were rejected due to the lack of a postsecondary degree can appeal to the State Personnel Board. Additionally, any person can report to the Board if a public employer fails to include the necessary explanation for requiring a postsecondary degree in job postings. The Board is empowered to enforce compliance and may require public employers to reopen hiring processes, modify job postings, or take other actions as necessary. The bill does not apply to political appointments and is set to become effective on January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-755
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-755