HB 1399 - 2021 -22 Reducing barriers to professional licensure for individuals with previous criminal convictions
What is happening?
HB 1399 - 2021 -22
Reducing barriers to professional licensure for individuals with previous criminal convictions.
Beginning January 1, 2022, the Department of Licensing will review “preliminary applications” (Criminal Conviction Screening form) from individuals with criminal convictions who want certain professional licenses. The review will not approve the license. It will determine whether the type of conviction is related to the license.
The law in question, House Bill 1399, adds a new chapter to Title 18 RCW and specifically applies to only licenses, certifications, or recognitions administered by the Department of Licensing or a board or commission with the support of the Department of Licensing. This service is optional. It is intended to give applicants information before they spend time or money taking any required classes or exams or paying licensing fees. Also, it does not cover every profession, please see “full list of Title 18 professions” below.
The new chapter in the RCW outlines the full list of Title 18 professions impacted by this bill. Please note, this list includes other professions outside of Title 18.
Why is this changing?
The law was passed to provide a reliable process for individuals with past criminal convictions to apply for a professional license, and to allow these individuals to obtain a professional license if the criminal conviction does not directly relate to the applicable profession, business, or trade.
Who will this impact?
Before applying for a professional license, individuals with a criminal conviction can request a review of their conviction to determine whether it would disqualify them from obtaining a professional license from the Department of Licensing.
When is this happening?
The new law goes into effect January 1, 2022.
How are we preparing for this change?
DOL is preparing for the new change by:
· Notifying external stakeholders.
· Documenting FAQs and developing website updates.
· Developing a manual (mail-in application) and electronic (on-line application) process for requesting the review. The manual process will be available Jan. 1, 2022. The electronic process will be available March 2022.
Related information
· RCW 34.05 – Administrative Procedure Act
· Certification of Enrollment HB 1399
Questions? Need help?
Please email us at DOLBPDCompliance@DOL.WA.GOV
Phone 360.664.6645