HB348 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris EnglandRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Occupational licensees, process created to allow persons convicted of crime to apply for if granted relief by court

Summary

HB 348 creates a court process for people with criminal convictions to seek an Order of Limited Relief so they can obtain or maintain occupational licenses without automatic denial due to the conviction (with some exceptions).

What This Bill Does

People convicted of crimes can file a petition in circuit court to obtain an Order of Limited Relief. If granted, the order prevents occupational licensing boards from automatically denying a license for the disqualifying conviction, though boards may still consider the underlying conduct. The bill also lays out who can apply, where to apply, required reports, a $100 filing fee with an indigent option, a 90-day ruling window, appeal rights, and reporting requirements, plus certain exceptions for specific occupations.

Who It Affects

• Individuals in Alabama who have misdemeanor or felony convictions and want to obtain or maintain occupational licenses; they must meet eligibility rules (not currently serving a custodial sentence over six months, not charged with a felony, and not under a misdemeanor charge in the past 12 months) to petition for an Order of Limited Relief.
• Occupational licensing boards and the licensing process; they cannot automatically deny licenses solely because a conviction exists if there is a valid Order of Limited Relief, but they may still consider the underlying conduct and are subject to the act's definitions, procedures, and exceptions.

Key Provisions

• Creates a petition process in circuit court to obtain an Order of Limited Relief, with specified venues for different convictions and the possibility to cover multiple convictions.
• Prohibits automatic denial or revocation of licenses by occupational licensing boards if a valid Order of Limited Relief is held, while allowing boards to consider the underlying conduct and excluding certain operations (e.g., law enforcement, Peace Officers' Standards and Training, drivers' licenses) from this protection.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Licenses and Licensing