HB 5973

Abstract

Amends the Funeral Directors and Embalmers Licensing Code, the Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act, the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985, the Illinois Public Accounting Act, and the Real Estate License Act of 2000. Allows the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to consider an applicant's prior conviction or convictions, but provides that the conviction or convictions may not be the sole basis for refusing to issue a license unless the crime substantially and directly relates to the occupation for which the license is sought. Requires that if the conviction is used as a basis for rejection, the rejection must be in writing and specifically state the evidence presented and reasons for rejection, which must be substantially and directly related to the licensed activity. Provides specific considerations the Department must use in making its decision for rejection. Provides what the Department shall use as evidence of rehabilitation so that all license rights and privileges granted under the Act, under consideration for issuance or formerly revoked or suspended because of conviction of an offense, are automatically restored unless the Department finds that restoration is not in the public interest. Requires that the Department not consider non-conviction records, convictions that did not result in incarceration, or convictions unrelated to the capacity to serve the public. In provisions concerning grounds for discipline, makes changes concerning disqualifying criminal penalties and delinquent child support.